Tributes Pour in for Diogo Jota as Widow Thanks Liverpool Fans

The widow of footballer Diogo Jota, Rute Cardoso, has expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Liverpool fans for their overwhelming support during this challenging period following the tragic death of her husband in a car accident.

In a touching message posted on Instagram, Cardoso thanked both the club and its supporters for their love and respect. This message came shortly after their two sons, Dinis and Duarte, led tributes on the Anfield pitch ahead of Liverpool’s match against Wolves.

Diogo Jota, a 28-year-old forward from Portugal, sadly lost his life in July due to a car crash in Spain, which also claimed the life of his 25-year-old brother, Andre Silva. The accident occurred when Jota’s Lamborghini experienced a tyre blow-out, resulting in a crash that led to a fire in Cernadilla, located in the Zamora province of Spain.

In her Instagram message, Cardoso stated, “From the bottom of my heart, thank you to the club and to all the fans for the love, respect, and support shown during this incredibly difficult time. Your messages and gestures have meant more than words can express.”

On the day of the match, Jota’s sons had the honor of leading the Liverpool team out of the tunnel, walking ahead of team captain Virgil van Dijk. A poignant banner reading, “Diogo Jota, forever in our hearts,” was prominently displayed in the Kop stand prior to kick-off.

Jota began his professional career with Wolves, where he joined on an initial season-long loan from Atletico Madrid in 2017 and went on to score 44 goals in 131 appearances. He later scored 65 goals in 182 appearances for Liverpool, contributing significantly to the team’s successes, including winning the FA Cup and EFL Cup in 2022 and the Premier League title last season. In a mark of respect, the Merseyside club has retired Jota’s number 20 shirt following his passing.