Liverpool and Portugal forward Diogo Jota has died at the age of 28 following a tragic road accident in Spain.
The fatal crash occurred on the A-52 motorway, at kilometre 65, near the municipality of Palacios de Sanabria in the province of Zamora.
Jota, born in 1996, was a key figure for both Liverpool FC and the Portuguese national team. The news of his sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the footballing world and beyond.
The Spanish sports newspaper MARCA reported the incident on Thursday, confirming that Jota died at the scene of the accident.
“Liverpool footballer Diogo Jota dies in a traffic accident in the province of Zamora,” the outlet wrote in a brief statement, mourning the loss of the talented player.
Jota was widely regarded for his tenacity, goal-scoring instinct, and versatility on the pitch.
Further details surrounding the crash and funeral arrangements are yet to be announced as of press time.
From wedding to death: Things to know about Diogo Jota
Liverpool forward and Portugal international Diogo José Teixeira da Silva, popularly known as Diogo Jota, passed away at the age of 28.
His untimely death has sent shockwaves throughout the football world, coming just days after what seemed to be the peak of his personal and professional life.
The Spanish sports newspaper MARCA reported the incident on Thursday, confirming that Jota died at the scene of the accident.
Born on December 4, 1996, in Porto, Portugal, Jota rose through the football ranks with determination and flair, earning respect across Europe for his explosive performances and versatility in attack.
The right-footed attacker, who could also play as a left or right winger, began his professional journey in Portugal before gaining international acclaim.
Jota joined Liverpool FC on September 19, 2020, from Wolverhampton Wanderers and became a crucial part of the Reds’ attacking options.
As of May 2025, his market value stood at €40 million, peaking at €60 million in December 2021. He extended his Liverpool contract in August 2022, which was due to expire in 2027.
During his career, Jota amassed 398 club appearances across major competitions, scoring 136 goals and providing 66 assists.
He played 190 Premier League matches, scoring 63 goals and registering 24 assists.
His goal-scoring prowess was also seen in the UEFA Champions League (6 goals), Europa League (9 goals), and domestic cups.
The striker had just recently gotten married on June 28 to his partner, Rute Cardoso.
