Klopp: ‘I Struggle!’ – Ex-Reds Boss Leads Global Outpouring After Jota Tragedy

The global football community is reeling after the tragic death of Portuguese international and former Liverpool star Diogo Jota, who was killed in a car accident in Spain alongside his brother, André Silva, on Thursday, July 3, 2025.

The devastating crash occurred in the municipality of Cernadilla, Zamora, when the car the brothers were travelling in veered off the road and erupted into flames.

Local authorities confirmed the heartbreaking news, leaving fans, teammates, and football figures around the world in shock.

Jota, 28, had become a beloved figure at Liverpool since his arrival from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020.

Under then-manager Jürgen Klopp, he quickly established himself as a key part of the Reds’ attacking force.

Upon hearing the news, Klopp shared a deeply emotional tribute to the player he admired both professionally and personally.

“This is a moment where I struggle!

“There must be a bigger purpose!

“But I can’t see it!” Klopp wrote, alongside a picture of him embracing Jota.

“I’m heartbroken to hear about the passing of Diogo and his brother André.

“Diogo was not only a fantastic player, but also a great friend, a loving caring husband and father!

“We will miss you so much!

“All my prayers, thoughts and power to Rute, the kids, the family, the friends and everyone who loved them!

“Rest in peace – Love, J”

Jota’s sudden death has prompted a wave of tributes from fellow professionals, clubs, politicians, and fans around the globe.

Former teammate and close friend Rúben Neves, who played with Jota at Wolves, wrote movingly:

“They say we only lose people when we forget them. I will never forget you!”

Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo also expressed his sorrow in a poignant message that captured the confusion and pain shared by many:

“To your family, your wife, and your children, I send my condolences and wish them all the strength in the world.

“I know you will always be with them.

“Rest in peace, Diogo and André.

“We will all miss you.”
He added: “Doesn’t make sense.”

Pedro Proença, president of the Portuguese Football Federation, praised Jota’s spirit and character beyond the pitch:

“An extraordinary person, respected by all colleagues and opponents, someone with a contagious joy and a reference in his own community.”

Jota’s football journey was defined by relentless dedication.

Starting out at Gondomar and Paços de Ferreira, he climbed through the ranks before earning a move to Atlético Madrid and then spending a season on loan at FC Porto.

The Portuguese giants, where Jota had a breakthrough season, expressed their grief in a statement:

“It is with shock and deep sorrow that we send our heartfelt condolences.”

Liga Portugal echoed the widespread loss felt throughout the sport, stating:

“The entire football universe in mourning.”

Former teammates, too, shared their disbelief and sorrow.

Raúl Jiménez, now at Fulham, who partnered with Jota in Wolves’ attack, said:

“It’s hard to receive this kind of news, and I still can’t believe it.

“An excellent teammate, 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 Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher was among the many stunned by the timing of the tragedy, coming just days after Jota’s wedding:

“Devastating news about Diogo Jota & his brother Andre this morning.

“Thoughts are with everyone of their family & friends, especially his wife Rute & their three lovely kids.”

Jota’s final message on social media was a celebration of his wedding to Rute Cardoso on June 22. It read simply:

“Yes, forever.”

Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro also responded to the news, offering words of condolence:

“I leave the family my deepest condolences.

“It’s a sad day for football and for national and international sport.”

The tragedy also resonated in the UK Parliament, where Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy noted that the entire House “is heartbroken by this news.”

Liverpool Football Club issued a brief but solemn statement before a cascade of tributes from clubs across Europe followed.

Top-tier institutions like Real Madrid, Barcelona, and AC Milan, along with teams from the Premier League and English Football League, acknowledged the profound loss.

Even Everton, Liverpool’s Merseyside rivals and the club against whom Jota scored his final goal, released a moving tribute:

“We are devastated by this tragic news. Everyone at Everton is sending their thoughts and condolences to the family and friends of Diogo and André Silva.”

Jota’s death marks not just the loss of a talented footballer but a father, a husband, a brother, and a teammate cherished by many.

His journey, from the fields of Portugal to the highest levels of club and international football, was one of humility, grit, and excellence.

His absence will be deeply felt, especially among Liverpool fans who had embraced him as one of their own.

As tributes continue to pour in from around the world, one thing is clear:

Diogo Jota’s legacy will endure, not just in goals and matches, but in hearts, memories, and the lasting impact he made in every club and community he touched.