Diogo Jota: Gone But Never Forgotten
- Evette Velasquez
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
July 3, 2025: a day that football fans will never forget. Fans all over the world were in shock after hearing about the tragic passing of Diogo Jota. Diogo Jota was a Portuguese professional footballer who played for Liverpool and Portugal. Jota sadly passed away in a car accident at 28 years old. Jota’s brother, André Silva, also died in the accident. Jota leaves behind his wife, whom he married a couple of weeks ago, and his three children. This is truly heartbreaking, unfathomable, and saddening. No one should ever have to go through this, and our hearts are with Jota’s family, friends, and fans during this time.
Diogo Jota was truly ahead of his time. He was best known for his versatility, intelligence, and impressive scoring ability. Jota was one of the best finishers in the league and was always in the right place at the right time. If there were anyone you would want left with the ball, it was him. He broke multiple records and was a staple for Liverpool and Portugal. Jota won a Premier League title, an FA Cup, and two EFL Cups with Liverpool. He also won the UEFA Nations League twice with Portugal. Jota was very successful and was barely getting started. He won the Premier League with Liverpool a few months ago, which makes it hurt even more. We just saw him in action not too long ago, and now he’s gone. Jota’s game was admirable and one that cannot be replicated.
Fans loved Jota as a player, but they loved his personality even more. Diogo Jota captured the hearts of many throughout his short career. He was genuine, humble, and always had a smile on his face. He put others before himself and worked hard for everything he had. Jota was a role model, and everyone is feeling the effects of his passing. Many fans are taking it hard, and it’s like losing a member of their own family. Why? Because fans felt a personal connection with Jota. That’s just the effect he had on people.
As the football world mourns the loss of Diogo Jota, many of his former teammates paid tribute, most notably Raúl Jiménez and Gonçalo Ramos. Jiménez paid tribute to Jota after scoring a goal for Mexico in the CONCACAF Gold Cup final. After tying the game, Jiménez sat down and pulled out a Mexico jersey with Jota's name and number on it. He then did Jota’s beloved Gamer Celebration - pretending to play video games. Jiménez and Jota developed their friendship during their time with the Wolverhampton Wanderers. Ramos, who played with Jota during his time with Portugal, also did the Gamer Celebration after he scored a goal for PSG in the FIFA Club World Cup semifinal. These were touching tributes because Jota loved playing video games and was an avid gamer. He even participated in tournaments and was ranked No. 1 globally on PlayStation’s FIFA Ultimate Team Champions leaderboard in 2021. It’s safe to say that Jota was good at everything, and the Gamer Celebration is forever his.
Diogo Jota was truly special, and there will never be another one like him. Although Jota is gone, his legacy will live on forever. Thank you, Jota, for allowing us to witness your greatness. Football will never be the same without you.