The captain of Liverpool, Virgil van Dijk, expressed his commitment to support the family of teammate Diogo Jota, who tragically lost his life in a car accident earlier this week.
Van Dijk shared heartfelt messages on Instagram on Thursday, describing his devastation over Jota’s untimely death, which occurred in Spain.
“I can’t believe this is happening; it feels surreal,” the 33-year-old captain stated. “It’s honestly heart-wrenching and just so hard to grasp.”
“What an incredible player, and above all, a wonderful family man,” he added.
Jota was a father to three young children and recently married Rute Cardoso just a few weeks prior in June. Van Dijk assured Jota’s family of his unwavering support.
“I can’t begin to imagine what you—Rute and your children—must be feeling. Losing a father and husband is just so unfair. My heart goes out to your beautiful family,” he conveyed.
“You will always be a champion. It was an honor to stand alongside you on the pitch and call you my friend.”
Having served as Liverpool’s captain since July 2023, Van Dijk bid farewell to his friend with a poignant tribute to Jota’s enduring legacy.
“Words can’t express how much we’ll miss you and how unforgettable you are,” he wrote. “Your legacy will most certainly live on!”
Jota had been with Liverpool since 2020, tallying 65 goals in 182 matches. He and his brother tragically died when their Lamborghini veered off the road and caught fire.
Jota was only 28 years old, while his brother was 25.
A memorial of flowers and tributes has sprung up outside Anfield Stadium, reflecting the profound sorrow within the community.
The club also issued a statement, expressing deep sorrow over Jota’s passing. “The Liverpool Football Club is heartbroken by the tragic loss of Diogo Jota. We ask that the privacy of Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, teammates, and staff be respected as they cope with this unimaginable loss.”
Other players have also shared their condolences. Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah stated he was “at a loss for words” following the accident.
“Until yesterday, I didn’t think anything could bring me back to Liverpool after a break,” Salah noted on Instagram. “Teammates come and go, but not in this way. Accepting that Diogo won’t be here when we return will be incredibly difficult. My thoughts are with his family—his wife, his children, and, of course, his parents, who have lost their children so suddenly.”
Former captain Jordan Henderson visited the memorial outside Anfield, emotional as he paid his respects. Meanwhile, loved ones gathered in Portugal ahead of the wake on Friday, with funeral plans set for Saturday.
