Tribute to Diogo Jota
In a heartfelt tribute to his departed friend, Rúben Neves unveiled a tattoo on his left leg depicting him embracing Diogo Jota during a training session with the Portuguese national team. This gesture is particularly poignant as the squad prepares for their upcoming World Cup qualifying matches against Armenia and Hungary.
Tragic Loss in the Football Community
The tribute comes in the wake of a tragic loss that struck the football community; Jota, a promising Liverpool forward, passed away tragically on July 3 in Spain along with his brother André Silva due to a car accident. Jota’s death has immense impact, especially during this first training camp for Portugal since the incident.
Neves, who shared the pitch with Jota not only at the national level but also at clubs Porto and Wolves, has expressed a deep bond with the late athlete and even served as one of Jota’s pallbearers at his funeral, shortly after participating in the FIFA Club World Cup with Al Hilal in the United States.
Memorial Event by the Portuguese Football Federation
This week, the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) conducted a touching memorial event to celebrate not only Jota’s life but also the legacy of Jorge Costa, the former FC Porto captain who passed away due to cardiac arrest on August 5 at the age of 53. The ceremony had the full attendance of Portugal’s squad, including captain Cristiano Ronaldo, solidifying the team’s unity in remembrance.
Honoring Jota’s Spirit
Neves, now set to don the No. 21 jersey for Portugal that Jota wore, spoke on behalf of his teammates, vowing to honor Jota’s spirit:
“I and the entire national team will do everything we can to keep Diogo here with us, on our team. Thank you, Jorge, and Diogo. Forever in our hearts.”
Jota’s family, consisting of his wife, Rute Cardoso, and his parents, were present and received a commemorative medal during the ceremony. The FPF also unveiled bronze-framed jerseys inscribed with Jota’s name and his number 21, alongside Costa’s number 2. FPF President Pedro Proença emphasized the organization’s commitment to honoring those who have significantly contributed to football and the national team, saying:
“As a century-old institution, the Portuguese Football Federation lives by its history and it has an obligation to honor those who built it. Men like Diogo Jota and Jorge Costa, who loved football, their country, and the national team.”
Jota’s Legacy
Throughout his international career, Jota earned 49 caps for Portugal and was a key player in their successful campaigns, including victories in the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and earlier this summer, totaling an impressive tally of 14 goals for his national side.
