The football world is mourning following the death of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, who passed away in a car accident with his brother, Andre Silva, on Thursday, July 3. Lionel Messi tribute to Diogo Jota was among the heartfelt messages shared by top players worldwide as they expressed grief and support for the grieving families.
Global Football Community Reacts to Diogo Jota’s Sudden Death
Prominent footballers, including Lionel Messi, Neymar Jr, Marcelo, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, and Karim Benzema, reached out on social media to honor Diogo Jota after his untimely passing. The loss shocked fans and players alike, as Jota had been expected to join Arne Slot’s squad for Liverpool’s pre-season training on Monday, July 7. Jota was traveling to the United Kingdom via ferry after receiving advice against air travel due to a recent minor surgery.
Neymar Jr took to Instagram to express his sorrow, saying:
“My condolences to all family and close friends. Rest in peace DIOGO and ANDRE!”
Karim Benzema also conveyed his sympathy to the family, while Kylian Mbappe offered condolences, stating:
“Deepest condolences, support, and thoughts are with those involved, their families and loved ones. Rest in peace Diogo & Andre”
João Cancelo reflected on the profound personal loss for Jota’s loved ones, sharing:
“Today, we didn’t just wake up without two football players. Today, three children woke up without their father. Today, a mother and a father woke up without their two sons. Today, a wife (they were recently married) woke up without her husband by her side. Today, we all woke up in shock. Today, the world is mourning in one of those rare moments when we can pause, show genuine feelings, and put things into perspective to appreciate what we have, and what is not guaranteed: tomorrow.”
Liverpool Squad Pays Emotional Homage
The news of Diogo Jota’s death left his Liverpool teammates and staff deeply shaken. Jota, who played 182 matches, scored 65 goals, and assisted 26 times for the club, had recently married his partner Rute on June 22, further deepening the heartbreak for those close to him.
Alexis Mac Allister, one of Jota’s teammates, shared a tribute reflecting his disbelief and sorrow, writing:
“I can’t believe it. I will always remember your smiles, your anger, your intelligence, your companionship and everything that made you a person. It hurts a lot, we will miss you. Rest in peace dear Diogo.”
Darwin Nunez also sent his condolences to the family and offered words of comfort:
“There are no words of comfort for so much pain. I will always remember you with your smile, as a good companion on and off the field. I send all my strength to his family, from where he is, I’m sure he will always be with you, especially his wife and three children. May he rest in peace. Diogo and Andre.”
Future Without Diogo Jota
As tributes pour in from across the football community, the impact of Diogo Jota’s passing is keenly felt by Liverpool, his colleagues, and fans. His absence creates a void in the squad ahead of the new season, and his recent marriage to Rute makes this tragedy even more poignant. The support and unity shown by key figures such as Lionel Messi, Neymar Jr, Kylian Mbappe, João Cancelo, and others reflect the far-reaching respect Jota commanded among peers. Liverpool faces an emotionally charged start to pre-season as players and staff come together to honor his memory and support his grieving family, with the legacy of Jota’s character and talent assured in the hearts of those he inspired.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Lionel Messi a billionaire?
A. Lionel Messi has a net worth of $1.15 billion, and he also earns a lot from his contract with Inter Miami and several endorsement deals.
He is one of the richest and most powerful sports figures today.
Messi’s expensive houses, high-end cars, and private jet show his lavish way of living.
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A. No, Lionel Messi is not a billionaire. He has earned a lot of money from football and endorsements, but his total wealth is less than one billion dollars. Messi is still one of the highest-paid athletes in the world.