Diogo Jota – Death, Career, Wife, Net Worth and Legacy
Diogo Jota, the Liverpool and Portugal forward, died on July 3, 2025, at the age of 28, following a car crash in Spain. The accident, which also claimed the life of his brother, occurred just days after his wedding and months after winning the Premier League. This article covers the confirmed facts about his death, his career, and his legacy.
The news sent shockwaves through the football world. Tributes poured in from teammates, managers, and clubs across the globe.
What Caused Diogo Jota’s Death?
Diogo José Teixeira da Silva
November 5, 1996 – July 3, 2025
Forward / Winger
Liverpool, Wolves, Porto
Key Insights
- Diogo Jota’s sudden death at 28 shocked the global football community.
- He was a key player for Liverpool, praised for his finishing and relentless work rate.
- His career spanned top clubs in Portugal, Spain, and England.
- The accident occurred on a highway in Spain, not Portugal.
- He died alongside his brother, André Silva.
- Official tributes came from Liverpool FC, the Premier League, and the Portuguese national team.
Snapshot Facts
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Diogo José Teixeira da Silva |
| Date of Birth | November 5, 1996 |
| Place of Birth | Born in São Tomé and Príncipe, raised in Portugal |
| Date of Death | July 3, 2025 |
| Age at Death | 28 |
| Position | Forward, Winger |
| Jersey Numbers | 20 (Liverpool), 18 (Portugal) |
| Spouse | Rute Cardoso |
| Children | Three |
| Cause of Death | Car accident (tire blowout) |
| Career Highlights | Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup, UEFA Nations League |
| International Caps | 49 caps, 14 goals |
Jota and his brother, André Silva (25), died on the A-52 motorway near Cernadilla, Zamora, Spain. The Lamborghini Huracán they were traveling in suffered a tire blowout while overtaking another vehicle. The car veered off the road and ignited, killing both occupants at the scene.
The Spanish Civil Guard stated that Jota was likely driving and that the vehicle was significantly exceeding the speed limit. Portuguese media also confirmed the car was speeding during the overtaking attempt.
What Clubs Did Diogo Jota Play For?
Jota’s professional career began in Portugal with Paços de Ferreira. He later moved to Atlético Madrid, then enjoyed a loan at Porto. His significant breakthrough came at Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Wolves and Liverpool Success
At Wolverhampton Wanderers (2017–2020), he made 131 appearances and scored 44 goals, helping the club win the Championship and establish themselves in the Premier League.
In 2020, he transferred to Liverpool. For Liverpool, he made 182 appearances, scoring 65 goals and providing 26 assists. He won the Premier League (2024–25), the FA Cup (2021–22), and the EFL Cup twice.
Portugal National Team
For Portugal, Jota earned 49 caps and scored 14 goals. He was part of the squads that won the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025. His final match was the 2025 Nations League final, where Portugal beat Spain.
Across all clubs, Diogo Jota made over 300 senior appearances and scored more than 100 goals. He was known for his versatility across the front line.
Who Is Diogo Jota’s Wife?
Diogo Jota married Rute Cardoso on June 22, 2025, just 11 days before his death. The couple had three children, with the youngest born in 2024.
Parents and Background
Information about his parents is not publicly named in available sources. He was born in São Tomé and Príncipe but raised in Portugal from a young age.
The timing of the tragedy is particularly poignant. Jota had just celebrated his first Premier League title with Liverpool and married Rute Cardoso only days before the accident.
What Is Diogo Jota’s Net Worth?
Official sources do not specify his exact net worth. At the time of his death, he was one of Liverpool’s key forwards. He was acquired from Wolves for a reported £41 million in 2020, which suggests a high salary and market value.
Timeline of Key Events
- : Born in São Tomé and Príncipe.
- : Joins Wolverhampton Wanderers.
- : Transfers to Liverpool FC for £41 million.
- : Wins FA Cup and EFL Cup with Liverpool.
- : Third child born.
- : Plays final match, winning Nations League with Portugal.
- : Marries Rute Cardoso.
- : Dies in car crash in Spain.
What Is Confirmed and What Remains Unclear?
Established Information
- Diogo Jota died in a road traffic accident on July 3, 2025.
- The accident occurred near Cernadilla, Zamora, Spain.
- His brother also died in the crash.
- The cause was a tire blowout while speeding.
- Official statements from Liverpool FC and Spanish authorities confirm the death.
Information That Remains Unclear
- Exact road conditions at the time of the crash.
- Details of injuries are not publicly released for privacy.
- Further specifics of the ongoing investigation by Spanish Civil Guard.
What Was Diogo Jota’s Legacy?
Diogo Jota is remembered for his versatility, clinical finishing, and immense team impact. He was a club hero at Liverpool, known for his pressing and intelligent movement. Tributes from figures like Jurgen Klopp, who called him the heart of the team, and Cristiano Ronaldo, who called him a brother, underscore his personal and professional reputation.
Sources and Tributes
“We are devastated to announce the passing of our beloved Diogo Jota. He was a wonderful player and an even better person.”
— Liverpool FC statement
“Diogo was the heart of our team. His energy was infectious. This is an unimaginable loss.”
— Jurgen Klopp, former manager
Summary
Diogo Jota’s life and career were cut tragically short on July 3, 2025. He leaves behind a legacy as a Premier League winner, a Nations League champion, and a beloved figure at Liverpool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Diogo Jota have any children?
Yes, he had three children with his wife Rute Cardoso.
What was Diogo Jota’s net worth?
Not specified in public sources, but his £41 million transfer fee suggests high earnings.
What was Diogo Jota’s jersey number at Liverpool?
He wore the number 20 shirt at Liverpool.
How many goals did Diogo Jota score for Liverpool?
He scored 65 goals in 182 appearances for Liverpool.
Was Diogo Jota married?
Yes, he married Rute Cardoso on June 22, 2025.
What car was Diogo Jota driving?
A Lamborghini Huracán, according to reports.
How many caps did Diogo Jota have for Portugal?
He earned 49 caps and scored 14 goals.
What was Diogo Jota’s age at death?
He was 28 years old.
What is the Diogo Jota chant?
Liverpool fans sang “Jota, Jota, Jota” to the tune of “Sloop John B”.
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