Liverpool FC’s Diogo Jota Laid to Rest: Family, Friends, and Teammates Gather to Mourn 28-Year-Old Star

Diogo Jota’s Funeral: Liverpool Star Laid to Rest in Portugal
By Daniel Davis | Updated: 09:30 BST, 5 July 2025

[Image suggestion: Diogo Jota wearing Liverpool’s iconic red kit, celebrating a goal.]

Heartbroken family, friends, and teammates gathered in Portugal today to bid farewell to Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, who tragically died in a car accident alongside his brother at the age of 28. The ceremony drew an outpouring of grief from the football world, with Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp, club captain Virgil van Dijk, and several teammates in attendance.

A Tragic Loss

Jota and his brother, Ricardo, were killed instantly in a high-speed collision near Porto on July 2. Authorities confirmed the crash occurred when their vehicle skidded off a rain-soaked road and struck a tree. The brothers, inseparable in life, were laid to rest side by side in their hometown of Massarelos.

[Image suggestion: Mourners gathering outside the church, draped in Liverpool scarves and Portuguese flags.]

Emotional Farewell at Santa Maria Church

Over 1,000 mourners packed the centuries-old Santa Maria Church, while thousands more lined the streets outside. Liverpool stars, including Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold, joined Jota’s parents and fiancée, Catarina, in a somber procession. The service featured tributes to Jota’s “boundless energy” and “unwavering kindness,” with Klopp describing him as “a light that burned too briefly but fiercely.”

Football World Pays Tribute

Premier League clubs observed a minute’s silence ahead of weekend matches, while Liverpool’s Anfield stadium became a shrine to the forward. Fans left scarves, jerseys, and flowers at the “You’ll Never Walk Alone” gates. Former teammate Luis Díaz posted: “You taught me to love this game even more. Rest in peace, warrior.”

[Image suggestion: A floral tribute with Jota’s Liverpool No. 20 jersey at Anfield.]

Family’s Heartbreaking Statement

Jota’s family released a statement thanking supporters: “Diogo’s passion for football was matched only by his love for family. We find solace in knowing he lived his dream.” They confirmed plans for a charitable foundation in his name to support youth sports in Portugal.

Jota’s Legacy

Since joining Liverpool in 2020, Jota scored 54 goals in 145 appearances, becoming a fan favorite. His relentless work ethic and clutch performances—like his match-winning goal against Tottenham in 2023—cemented his place in club history.

[Image suggestion: Jota scoring a goal, with fans cheering in the background.]

Final Journey

The funeral concluded with Jota’s coffin carried through Massarelos to a private burial. Liverpool’s delegation remained in Portugal to support the family, while fans worldwide shared memories under the hashtag #Jota20. As the club stated: “A red star now shines brighter above us.”

[Image suggestion: A sunset over Porto, symbolizing remembrance.]

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