Oldham Athletic boss Micky Mellon issues poignant tribute after confirming tragic death of Liverpool’s Diogo Jota, 28
In a heart-wrenching development that has sent ripples through the football world, Oldham Athletic head coach Micky Mellon has expressed deep sorrow and solidarity following the untimely passing of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, aged 28. Jota, alongside his younger brother André Silva, died in a devastating car crash early on July 3, 2025 when their Lamborghini veered off the A‑52 motorway near Cernadilla, Zamora—bursting into flames and claiming both lives instantly.
A former standout at Wolves and Atlético Madrid, Jota emerged as a prolific and beloved figure at Liverpool after his 2020 transfer. His explosive pace and clinical finishing were instrumental in the Reds’ 2024–25 Premier League triumph, as well as their recent FA Cup and League Cup successes . Additionally, he was part of Portugal’s victorious 2025 UEFA Nations League squad, celebrating the win just under a month before his tragic death .
Mellon, himself a respected figure in English football, known for elevating Oldham Athletic back into League Two via the 2025 National League play-off final, was deeply shaken by the news ([theguardian.com][2]). In an emotional message to his squad and supporters, he said:
“In moments like these, even football takes a back seat. To lose someone so young, so full of life, right at the height of his career—it’s unthinkable. Diogo was not just a world-class talent; he was a family man, recently married, a father of three. I can only imagine the pain his loved ones are going through. Our hearts go out to Rute, their children, André’s family, Liverpool, Portugal and the greater football community.”
Notably, Jota had tied the knot with Rute Cardoso merely ten days before the accident and welcomed three young children into his life . His passing, alongside his brother’s, has prompted widespread tributes across the football spectrum—from Liverpool’s sombre half-masting of flags to tributes from teammates, national leaders, and peers alike.
Mellon—who just last month celebrated guiding Oldham back into the EFL after a dramatic extra-time play-off win—showed a compassionate side of football leadership in addressing his squad and the wider club community. He emphasised the importance of perspective at such a moment:
> “What’s happening in a game at Boundary Park on Saturday feels so insignificant compared to this. We’re thinking of every person affected. Sport is a powerful thing, but life reminds us of its limits.”
Inside Boundary Park’s changing rooms, a moment of silence was observed, and players were encouraged to seek support if affected by the tragedy. Mellon committed the club to contributing to memorial initiatives for Jota and expressing solidarity through gestures such as moments of reflection before upcoming matches.
As the football world continues to mourn this unimaginable loss, Mellon’s heartfelt message stands as a poignant reminder: beyond wins and losses—even beyond league promotions—football remains a community bound by empathy, shared humanity, and the fragility of life itself.
Read more on;https://www.sportupdates.co.uk
Leave a Reply