Diogo Jota remembered one year after his tragic passing at 28

On July 3, 2026, the football world mourns the loss of Diogo Jota, the talented Liverpool forward who tragically passed away in a car crash a year ago. Just weeks prior, Jota, 28, celebrated winning the Premier League title with Liverpool and married his long-term partner, Rute Cardoso, with whom he had three children.

Diogo Jota's Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Jota made a significant impact on the pitch. He scored 65 goals in 182 appearances for Liverpool, contributing to the club's victories in the FA Cup and League Cup in 2022, as well as the Premier League title in 2024-25. Jota began his journey at Pacos de Ferreira before moving to Atletico Madrid, where he was loaned to Porto and later Wolverhampton Wanderers. He netted 44 goals in 131 appearances for Wolves.

Jota made his international debut for Portugal in 2019, stepping in for Cristiano Ronaldo during a match against Lithuania. Over his international career, he earned 49 caps and scored 14 goals, with his last match being a Nations League final victory against Spain on June 8, 2025.

Remembering Diogo Jota's Character

Beyond his achievements, it is Jota's character that is fondly remembered by teammates and coaches. Former Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher shared, "He was a wonderful guy and definitely one of a kind. He was always himself and stayed true to himself." Kelleher reminisced about their friendship, detailing how Jota's enthusiasm extended beyond football to interests like horse racing and darts.

Former Liverpool manager Arne Slot also reflected on Jota's impact, stating, "He always put the team first and, whenever he was needed, he was ready to fight for his teammates and for the club he loved playing for." Slot emphasized that Jota's choice of a team photograph after their Premier League win showcased his selflessness.

Tributes and Legacy of Diogo Jota

In the aftermath of Jota's tragic passing, the football community paid tribute to his legacy. His former clubs and teammates remembered him as a symbol of hope and inspiration. Nuno Espirito Santo, Jota's former Wolves manager, expressed his admiration for Jota's ability to connect with everyone, saying, "He got along with everyone. Whether it was a teammate or a member of staff, he always had time for people and made everyone feel valued."

Jota's untimely death left a profound impact on those who knew him. Kelleher fondly recalled the joy of attending Jota's wedding just a week before his passing, cherishing those memories as a testament to their friendship.