Diogo Jota was the future of football, having done incredible things with Portugal national team. Tragically, he was killed in an automobile accident in Spain on July 3 at the age of 28. His untimely death has sent shockwaves throughout the football community. This tragedy occurs only days after his union in matrimony with Rute Cardoso. The newly married couple celebrated their wedding on June 22, only to be served with heartbreak just two weeks later.
Jota starred for the Portugal team that won the UEFA Nations League in June 2023. This kind of victory would represent a huge breakthrough in his career. This achievement came on the heels of another Nations League championship he played a key role in winning back in 2019. His contributions to the sport were widely recognized, and he joined Liverpool FC in 2020, donning the number 20 shirt.
Many of today’s players were present at Jota’s (Diogo Jota’s funeral) service. From them were Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk and Portugal star Ruben Neves, a testament to the deep respect that his peers had for him. Sadly, Jota’s brother, Andre Silva, died in the accident. At only 25 years old, Andre was an aspiring professional footballer in Portugal.
Liverpool FC announced they would retire his number 20 shirt. Conversations about this honor included Rute Cardoso and Jota’s family, making sure they were part of decision-making and planning.
“It was vitally important to us to involve Diogo’s wife Rute and his family in the decision and to ensure they were the first to know of our intention,” said Michael Edwards, Liverpool’s club boss.
This special act of remembrance represents an iconic moment in Liverpool FC history. The move is significant as it marks the first time, in the club’s 145-year existence, that the Reds have retired a player’s number like this.
“By retiring this squad number, we are making it eternal — and therefore never to be forgotten,” a club representative stated.
Rute Cardoso expressed her sorrow on social media, sharing pictures from her wedding day with Jota. On Tuesday, she reflected on their brief yet meaningful time together, saying, “One month since our ‘til death do us part,” adding that she would be “forever” Diogo Jota’s.
“He won us number 20, and he wore — with honour, distinction and affection — the number 20,” she expressed.
