Liverpool Star Mohamed Salah Mourns the Loss of Diogo Jota in Heartfelt Tribute

Key Takeaways

Liverpool's Mohamed Salah expressed deep grief over the sudden death of teammate Diogo Jota in a car accident.
Jota, 28, and his brother Andre Silva, 25, died in the accident while returning to Liverpool for pre-season training.
Salah and the Liverpool community extended condolences to Jota's family, including his wife, children, and parents.
Liverpool postponed its pre-season return and set up a book of condolences for fans to pay their respects.
Jota's dedication and professionalism were praised by his doctor, highlighting his enthusiasm for the upcoming season.

Liverpool’s star player Mohamed Salah has opened up about the profound grief he feels following the untimely death of his teammate Diogo Jota. The 28-year-old Portuguese forward tragically lost his life in a car accident, along with his 25-year-old brother Andre Silva, on Thursday.

"I am truly lost for words," Salah said in an emotional statement. "Until yesterday, I never imagined anything that would make me hesitant to return to Liverpool after the break. Teammates come and go, but not like this. It’s going to be extremely difficult to accept that Diogo won’t be there when we go back."

Salah extended his condolences to Jota’s family, including his wife, children, and parents, who are grappling with the sudden loss of both sons. "Those close to Diogo and his brother Andre need all the support they can get. They will never be forgotten," he added.

The accident occurred around 00:30 local time as Jota was traveling back to Liverpool for pre-season training. Due to recent minor surgery, doctors had advised him against flying, so he opted to make the journey by car and ferry.

Dr. Miguel Goncalves, who had been overseeing Jota’s recovery, praised the footballer’s dedication and professionalism. "I started working with him last Saturday and was with him every day until Wednesday. He made an extraordinary recovery and was an unparalleled professional," Dr. Goncalves told Portuguese sports newspaper Record. "He was excited, confident in his recovery, and enthusiastic about the next season."

Jota, who married his long-term partner Rute Cardoso just 11 days before the accident, leaves behind three children. The football world has been left reeling by the news, with tributes pouring in from teammates, clubs, and fans alike.

Former Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher described Jota as "one of my closest friends in football" and shared fond memories of their bond over sports and laughter. "It’s going to hurt for a long time, and I’m going to miss you so much," Kelleher said.

Liverpool has postponed its pre-season return, with players now scheduled to report back in phases on Monday. The club has also set up a book of condolences at Anfield and online to allow fans worldwide to pay their respects.

A vigil was held at the Chapel of Resurrection in Jota’s hometown of Gondomar, where a funeral service is set to take place on Saturday. Tributes have also been laid at the football academy named after Jota, where he played from the age of nine to 17.

As the football community mourns the loss of a talented player and beloved teammate, Jota’s legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who knew him and the fans who cheered him on.