July 3, 2025, will forever be remembered as a heartbreaking day for football fans worldwide. On this day, Diogo José Teixeira da Silva, globally recognized as Diogo Jota, tragically lost his life in a car accident in Zamora, Spain. At just 28 years old, Jota's exceptional career and unwavering dedication had earned him immense respect as one of football's finest talents.
Born in Porto, Portugal, on December 4, 1996, Jota grew up with a deep passion for football. His early career began with Gondomar SC, and in 2013, he made the move to Paços de Ferreira. Jota debuted for Paços de Ferreira’s senior team in 2014, showcasing his unique abilities in the Primeira Liga, Portugal's top-tier football league.
In 2016, Jota signed with Atlético Madrid but was immediately loaned to FC Porto, where his extraordinary skills shone brightly. Later, he transitioned to England, joining Wolverhampton Wanderers initially on loan before securing a permanent position. It was at Wolves where Jota made his mark, scoring numerous goals and playing a key role in the club's ascent to the Premier League.
Jota's career took another leap in 2020 when Liverpool signed him for £41 million. This marked the beginning of a remarkable chapter for the club. Over five unforgettable years at Liverpool, Jota played 123 matches, netted 47 goals, and clinched four major trophies, including the prestigious Premier League title in the 2024/25 season. Known for his speed, flair in dribbling, and captivating goal-scoring ability, Jota was an adaptable player who excelled as both a forward and a left-winger.
On the international stage, Jota proudly donned Portugal's colors across various youth divisions, including U19, U21, and U23, before joining the senior national team in 2019. In his 49 appearances, he scored 14 goals and competed in major tournaments such as EURO 2020, EURO 2024, and the FIFA World Cup 2022. He also played a pivotal role in Portugal's UEFA Nations League victories in 2019 and 2025.
Jota's career was not without challenges, as he faced multiple injuries, particularly in later years. Despite these setbacks, his resilience, relentless work ethic, and leadership on the field endeared him to fans and coaches globally.
Off the field, Jota cherished his family. In June 2025, he married his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso, and together they had three children. He also held a unique title as the top global FIFA 21 player and enjoyed success in the gaming arena as the founder of Luna Galaxy, his eSports team.
The news of Jota’s premature death stunned many, especially as it came shortly after Portugal's UEFA Nations League 2025 victory against Spain, a tournament where Jota played a crucial role. The fatal car accident occurred in Zamora, Spain, during what was reportedly a vacation.
Diogo Jota will forever be immortalized as a selfless, humble, and supremely talented footballer. His remarkable contributions continue to inspire players and fans alike. In just 28 years, he left behind a legacy that honored football across Portugal, England, and on the global stage.
Diogo Jota, Liverpool forward, tragically passes away.