Liverpool FC release statement following death of Diogo Jota

Liverpool FC have confirmed that Diogo Jota has passed away and have released an official statement on their club website.

Jota tragically passed away alongside his brother, Andre Silva, in a car crash on the morning of July 3.

The Liverpool player leaves behind three young children and wife Rute, whom he married on June 22.

Liverpool have now confirmed that he has passed away after the news was widely reported elsewhere.

In a statement, Liverpool FC said:

“Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota.

“The club have been informed the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre.

“Liverpool FC will be making no further comment at this time and request the privacy of Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, teammates and club staff is respected as they try to come to terms with an unimaginable loss.

“We will continue to provide them with our full support.”

Jota’s brother, Andre, also died in the crash, which happened at around 00:30 local time (23:30 BST), said the Guardia Civil in Spain.

The car, a Lamborghini, was travelling on the A-52 in the Zamora when it left the road due to a tyre blow out while overtaking, crashing and setting the car alight.

Tributes have been coming from across the football world and beyond.

Teammate Stefan Bajcetic said on social media: “You will be remembered my friend.”

Jamie Carragher wrote: “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.”

Meanwhile, David Fairclough said: “Like so many in the football world, I am shocked beyond belief to hear such sad news of Diogo Jota.

“Deepest condolences and best wishes to all his family and friends at this devastating time. RIP, YNWA.”

Prime minister Luis Montenegro in Jota’s home country, Portugal, said: “The news of the death of Diogo Jota, an athlete who greatly honoured Portugal’s name, and his brother is unexpected and tragic.

“I extend my deepest condolences to their family. It is a sad day for football and for national and international sports.”