‘Never forget you’: Ruben Neves & Raul Jimenez lead emotional tributes to Diogo Jota after Wolves hero dies in crash
Figures from the football and sporting world have lined up to pay tribute to former Wolves man Diogo Jota – following his terrible passing at the age of 28.
Jota, who lit up Molineux with 44 goals in 131 games, was a firm favourite among the Wolves supporters – before going on to make the switch to Liverpool.
He would net 65 goals in 182 games for the Anfield club, winning the Premier League, FA Cup and EFL Cup.
On Thursday morning, it was reported Jota had died in a car crash alongside his brother Andre Silva, himself a professional footballer in the second tier of Portuguese football.
The news has stunned the football world, with a host of individuals rushing up to pay their respects to the former Wolves attacker.
And his former team-mate and ex-Wolves captain Ruben Neves led the condolences to Jota, following Thursday morning’s devastating announcement.
Posting on Instgram, Neves, who now plays for Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, said: “They say we only lose people when we forget them. I will never forget you!”
He was followed by ex-Wolves forward Raul Jimenez, who paid respect adding: “It’s hard to receive this kind of news, and I still can’t believe it.
An amazing colleague, friend, and above all, a great father. Thanks for everything, my friend. We’ll always remember you. A hug to heaven. R.I.P.”
Former Wolves midfielder Dave Edwards also gave a touching tribute.
He wrote: “A magical footballer with an unshakeable, relentless spirit that has given Wolves supporters some of the most amazing Molineux memories.
“Away from the pitch just a really, really pleasant person. Thoughts and prayers with the friends and family of Diogo and Andre RIP.”
On Thursday morning, Wolves also put out a statement declaring the forward will ‘never be forgotten’.
Their statement read: “We are heartbroken.
“Diogo was admired by our fans, loved by his teammates and appreciated by everyone who worked with him throughout his time at Wolves.
“The memories he produced will never be forgotten. Our sympathies go out to the family, friends and loved ones of Diogo and his brother, Andre. You will be truly missed, and always remembered.”
Ex-Wolves man Barry Douglas was another to express his homage, stating: “Absolutely sorry to hear about the awful news of Diogo and his brother.
“Life is cruel and precious at the same time, my deepest condolences go out to his beautiful kids and wife at this tragic time.”
Another former team mate, Ivan Cavaleiro, who spent four years at Molineux, shared a picture on Instagram beside Jota, while holding up the Championship title, adding: “A huge shock for all of us, loads of strength to the family and friends. Thank you for all these amazing moments.”
Helder Costa, who also featured alongside Jota at Wolves, said: “Without words. Rest in peace Jota.”
Former Wolves footballer and broadcaster Jamie O’Hara added: “I can’t believe the news I’m waking up to, my heart goes out to Diego Jota family, terrible terrible news.”
In a statement confirming the news, the Portuguese Football Federation paid an emotional homage to both players.
The announcement read: “We have lost two champions. Their deaths represent irreparable losses for Portuguese football, and we will do everything we can to respect their legacy every day.”
Shortly after the news surfaced, Liverpool put out a statement, which read: “Liverpool FC will be making no further comment at this time and urge the privacy of Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, teammates and club staff is respected as they struggle to come to terms with an incomprehensible tragedy.
“We will continue to provide them with our full support.”
One of Jota’s old clubs also offered their thoughts, adding: “Porto is in grief. It is with shock and sad regret that we express our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, who was also our youth player. May they rest in peace.”
Other figures from the football world lined up to give their thoughts, with ex-Liverpool defender and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher adding: “Devastating news about Diogo Jota & his brother Andre this morning. Thoughts are with everyone of their family & friends, especially his wife Rute & their three gorgeous kids.”
And his colleague analyst Gary Neville said: “That is devastating news on Diogo Jota and his brother. All my love and best wishes to his family.”
Elsewhere, the World Snooker Tour tweeted a picture of Jota on X on a visit to the Crucible, claiming Jota was a keen admirer of the sport and had made a trip to the World Snooker Championship.
The post read: “We are devastated today to hear the news that Diogo Jota has unfortunately departed away.
“Diogo liked snooker and we were happy to welcome him to the Crucible where he met several of our staff and players. Our sympathies and profound condolences are with his family and friends.”
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