In Memory of Diogo Jota: A Liverpool Icon Gone Too Soon

I saw the news in a moment where disbelief and confusion instantly engulfed me. My immediate hope was that a sick joke had gained too much traction and that the devastating circumstances were not as reported. Those hopes were quickly dashed and realisation soon became apparent, that in indeed the news was true. Sadness overwhelmed me, concerning the passing of a young man I had watched and written about on countless occasions, as well as his brother, Andre. Those continuing feelings of sorrow would not have come close to the hurt that must have confronted a heartbroken family, as the world became aware that Diogo and Andre Jota had lost their lives following a car crash in Spain.

Diogo Jota, born 4th of December 1996, gave every indication that he was a tremendous human being, a wonderful father and a beloved husband to his new bride, Rute Cardoso. In an unforgiving world where so much defies logic and cruelty has too often spread like a pandemic, a man adored by so many was taken away from an adoring Liverpool supporter and more importantly, a family now deep in mourning. As a husband and father to two young girls, I can only imagine the pain and suffering caused by such a tragedy and express my heartfelt condolences to anyone affected.

As a footballer, the former Wolves man was adored by a fraternity of fans, friends, and colleagues in a career that was entrenched in so much silverware and success. Following an EFL Championship title with Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2018, a move to Liverpool in 2020 saw the wonderful attacker win the FA Cup, two EFL Cups and as a testament to his own number 20 shirt, he was integral in the Anfield giants securing the 20th English League title in their fabled history.

History will look upon a man taken too soon, a hero to thousands and a family man adored above all else. The coming days, weeks and months will be difficult, yet the memories of a great career will be remembered, always. Words are hard to convey and emotional sentiment will be shared by many in this shared period of mourning. Diogo is his name and he will always be in our hearts, as he and his younger sibling, Andre (just 26 years old), will never walk alone.

Everybody lost on this day.