🇵🇹 Portugal Honours Diogo Jota: Ruben Neves Inherits No. 21 Jersey After Tragic Death
Description
Portugal pays tribute to late forward Diogo Jota, handing his No. 21 jersey to close friend Ruben Neves after his tragic car crash in Spain.
Portugal’s Emotional Tribute to Diogo Jota
The Portuguese national team has paid a moving tribute to Diogo Jota, their beloved forward, who tragically lost his life in a car accident in Spain last month. To keep his legacy alive, head coach Roberto Martinez has handed Jota’s iconic No. 21 jersey to his close friend and former Wolves teammate Ruben Neves.
Jota’s untimely passing shocked the football world, as the 28-year-old was seen as one of the brightest stars of Portugal’s golden generation. His sudden loss has united players, fans, and clubs in grief and remembrance.
Roberto Martinez: “Diogo Will Always Be With Us”
Coach Roberto Martinez described Jota as an inspiration whose memory will serve as motivation:
“Diogo’s example is a light for us. His absence is a factor of unity, motivation, and responsibility, because Diogo wanted to win the World Cup, and we are here to fight and achieve that dream.”
Martinez added that awarding the No. 21 jersey to Neves ensures Jota’s presence remains symbolically on the field.
Ruben Neves: The Torchbearer of Jota’s Spirit
Ruben Neves, who currently plays for Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, shared an unbreakable bond with Jota. The pair rose together during their time at Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League, building a friendship that extended far beyond the pitch.
Neves was also a pallbearer at Jota’s funeral, a gesture that underlined the depth of their relationship. By inheriting Jota’s jersey number, Neves has vowed to carry his spirit and fight for the dreams they once shared.
The Tragic Accident in Spain
Jota’s life was cut short when his Lamborghini veered off the road and burst into flames in northwestern Spain. He was traveling with his younger brother Andre Silva, who also lost his life in the accident. Local authorities confirmed that speed and poor road conditions may have been factors, but investigations are ongoing.
The tragedy sent shockwaves throughout Portugal, Spain, and the global football community, with countless tributes pouring in from fans, clubs, and fellow professionals.
Liverpool’s Lasting Tribute
At Liverpool, where Jota became a fan favourite for his goals, tireless work rate, and clutch performances, the club has retired his No. 20 shirt in his memory.
Former teammate James Milner, now playing for Brighton & Hove Albion, has announced he will wear the No. 20 jersey this season to pay tribute to Jota’s legacy.
Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp described Jota as a “fighter with a smile who gave everything for the team”, while fans around Anfield have created memorial walls filled with scarves, shirts, and heartfelt messages.
Fans’ Reaction: “Forever in Our Hearts”
The loss of Jota has sparked an outpouring of grief from fans around the world. Social media timelines were flooded with tributes, hashtags like #ForJota and #YNWA trended globally, and stadiums across Europe held minutes of silence.
At Wolves’ Molineux Stadium, thousands of supporters gathered to light candles and chant Jota’s name, recalling the goals and magical moments he brought to the club.
Portugal’s World Cup Dream Continues
As Portugal prepares for upcoming qualifiers and looks ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Jota’s absence will be felt deeply. Yet, Martinez insists his memory will serve as fuel for the squad’s determination.
With stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, and Ruben Dias in the squad, Portugal hopes to fulfill Jota’s dream of lifting the World Cup trophy — carrying him in spirit every step of the way.
Key Talking Points
- 🇵🇹 Portugal passes No. 21 jersey to Ruben Neves in honour of Diogo Jota.
- ⚽ Jota tragically died in a car crash in Spain at just 28.
- 🕊️ Ruben Neves was a pallbearer at his funeral.
- 🔴 Liverpool retires Jota’s No. 20 shirt permanently.
- 🌍 Tributes pour in from fans, teammates, and clubs worldwide.
- 🏆 Martinez: “Jota’s example is a light; we will fight to win the World Cup for him.”
- External Linking:
- Liverpool FC (official club tribute
- UEFA (Portugal fixtures and tournaments)
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