Former Chelsea and Real Madrid manager José Mourinho has paid tribute to Portuguese forward Diogo Jota following the tragic accident that claimed the lives of the Liverpool player and his brother, André Silva.
Speaking to Sky Sports at Silverstone, as reported by Mirror.co.uk, Mourinho reflected on Jota’s character and professional journey, calling him a hard-working and humble player.
Mourinho said;
“When someone passes, people often say they were a good person. In Diogo’s case, that was true.”
The Portuguese gaffer continued that:
“He was respectful, disciplined, and always committed to his work. I know this through our shared connections we had the same agent and through what I’ve heard from those at Liverpool.”
Recall that Jota and his younger brother died in a car accident in Spain while on their way to catch a ferry to the UK. Reports indicate the Liverpool forward had been advised not to fly due to recent surgery and was taking a land-sea route to rejoin his club for pre-season. Mourinho added:
“His journey in football was never straightforward.” “He worked hard to reach the level he did and earned his place with consistent effort.”
Reflecting on the emotional weight of the situation, Mourinho also recalled a similar moment from his early coaching days.
“Years ago at Porto, when I was working with Mr. Robson, one of our players, Rui Filipe, died in a car accident. It was difficult for the group, but we supported each other through it. That togetherness helped us move forward.”
The former Manchester United manager then expressed confidence that Liverpool will support Jota’s family and one another during this period.
“Liverpool is a club that looks after its people. I’ve heard they are considering retiring his shirt number as a sign of respect.”
“At Anfield, he will be remembered. The team may have lost a player, but his contribution and character will continue to be recognised.”
Recall that Softfootball reported that Jota and his brother Andre will be laid to rest at Godomar on Saturday. The funeral service for Diogo Jota and his younger brother, André Silva, will be held on Saturday, July 6, in Gondomar, a municipality located just outside the Portuguese city of Porto.
The wake will be held at São Cosme Chapel, followed by a funeral mass at the Igreja Matriz de Gondomar, located next door.
Jota, who began his football journey in Gondomar, is believed to have maintained deep ties to the community and is also thought to have met his wife, Rute Cardoso, there. Recall that the Liverpool player, Jota, married his long-time girlfriend, Cadoso, 10 days ago, before the tragedy; they share three kids.
