It has been over a day since the devastating news of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva’s unfortunate demise has arrived and football managers have shared their reactions.
The footballing world was shocked when the information arrived yesterday as everyone was in disbelief that something this horrific might happen to a player who was going through perhaps the best phase of his life.
Jota, just after winning the Premier League with Liverpool, went on to win the Nations League title with Portugal and also got married with his longterm girlfriend Rute Cardoso on June 22.
During a trip in Spain with his brother Andre, reportedly while going to a ferry, the Lamborghini they were riding caught on fire and both of them were tragically killed.
Condolence messages have arrived from many officials. The official LFC website paid their tribute.
Coach Arne Slot also expressed his grief: “…When the time is right, we will celebrate Diogo Jota, we will remember his goals and we will sing his song. For the time being, we will remember him as a unique human being and mourn his loss. He will never be forgotten…”
Former Merseyside manager Jurgen Klopp, “This is a moment where I struggle! There must be a bigger purpose! But I can’t see it! I’m heartbroken to hear about the passing of Diogo and his brother André.
“Diogo was a not only a fantastic player, but also a great friend, a loving and caring husband and father! We will miss you so much!
“All my prayers, thoughts and power to Rute, the kids, the family, the friends and everyone who loved them! Rest in peace.”
Former PL manager Jose Mourinho, speaking about the incident, said, “When people leave this world, normally we all say, ‘such a nice guy’, Diogo was really a nice guy.
“He had my agent, he had my structure, so of course I knew a lot about him. And people in Liverpool, they know what I am saying is the truth.
“He’s a kid that nothing was easy for him. He had to fight to arrive where he arrived. He was not from this generation; he was not chasing protagonism, the protagonism found him because of his talent.
“And the history is something really crazy. Three kids that stay without the dad, a young woman without her husband, the parents they lose both sons, it’s crazy.
“It’s difficult to understand. Maybe one day we will understand, but not now.”
Recalling a similar incident that took place during his time at FC Porto, Mourinho said that even though they became the champions, the group suffered together due to Rui Filipe’s death.
He even credited the win to Filipe. Comparing the situation, the Portuguese manager said, “I think in Liverpool they are going to suffer together, also the fans.
“I think the club is also a fantastic club. I think they have already decided or are deciding to take away the shirt number 20. So I think it will be always, at Anfield, he will be always part of the family and maybe they lose a player, but maybe they win even more soul than what they have.”
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Managers react to traggic death of Diogo Jota
Roberto Martinez, current Portugal national team manager, said, “We were all struck by this tragedy, we are all devastated. Our thoughts go out to the wife, Rute, the three children, and the rest of the family and friends of Diogo Jota and André Silva.
“We created a family in the National Team that goes far beyond football. Diogo is an important part of it, on and off the field. His professionalism and belief were contagious and exemplary.
“On the pitch, Diogo wore the jersey with pride, and his work in the box is world-class. We feel the family’s pain, and in this tragedy, it makes us question life in general. Portugal will miss one of its heroes.”
Fernando Santos, former Selecao manager, expressed his feelings by saying, “He had a huge passion for the national team.
“He couldn’t go to the World Cup in Qatar because he was injured, but he made a point of joining us. He was with the team during the training camp and came to our matches. That was his own initiative.”
Paulo Fonseca, former manager of Pacos de Ferreira, who also gave Jota his professional debut back in 2014, grieved, “Today is a tragic day. My thoughts are with Diogo’s family. We have lost a phenomenal man. His honesty, humility, simplicity, and talent are an example for us all. You will always be in our hearts.”
Jorge Simao, who became the manager of his first pro club later on, commented, “I am deeply sad and in disbelief at the death of Diogo Jota and his brother, André. I am devastated!
“A big hug to the family, friends, and all those who, like me, feel orphaned by a player who seemed to still have so much to live for and achieve. Thank you for everything, Jota!”
Jota was not only an incredible player, but also a son, a brother, a husband and a father. As long as ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ will be sung, the name of Diogo Jota will be ringing across the world.
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