Tributes are pouring in from Liverpool legends and Portugal’s national team following the death of the Reds’ forward, Diogo Jota.
Jota, 28, married his partner last month. The Portuguese international, a key part of the Liverpool side that won the Premier League last season, and earlier played for Wolves and Porto left behind his wife and three children.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, in a tribute, said “millions of Liverpool fans, but also football fans, and non-fans” will be shocked.
Liverpool FC are “devastated” by what they call an “unimaginable loss.”
“It doesn’t make sense,” Cristiano Ronaldo said while the Portuguese federation says Jota was “an extraordinary person.”
Jota died in a car crash when his car left the road due to a tyre blowout while overtaking another car, according to local police.
Liverpool legends Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard have expressed their sadness on social media at the passing of Jota.
“Devastating news about Diogo Jota & his brother Andre this morning. Thoughts are with everyone of their family & friends, especially his wife Rute & their three lovely kids,” Carragher wrote.
“RIP Diogo. Condolences to his family and friends during this incredibly sad time,” says Gerrard.
Portugal’s national team, in a heartfelt statement said Jota was “not only a fantastic player with almost 50 caps for the national team, but also an extraordinary person” who was respected by teammates and opponents alike.
According to Portugal’s national team, Jota had a “contagious joy” and was “a reference point in his own community.”
