Portugal international Joao Felix has described his late teammate Diogo Jota as someone who will “forever be a part of football history” after the Liverpool forward tragically lost his life at just 28 years old.
Jota died alongside his brother, Andre Silva, when their Lamborghini veered off the road in northern Spain on July 3. The tragedy came less than two weeks after Jota had married Rute Cardoso, with whom he shared three children.
Clubs and supporters across the Premier League honoured Jota with a series of tributes over the weekend, remembering his impact both on and off the pitch.
Felix, speaking with visible emotion, recalled their bond during their years together with the Portuguese national team. “Diogo to me was one of my best friends in the national team, he was always part of our mini group in the national team, those of us who were always together,” he said. “I knew his family, especially his parents, an incredible family.”
The forward, currently in Hong Kong with new club Al Nassr for the Saudi Super Cup, reflected on Jota’s lasting legacy. “I think he will forever be a part of football history, he will remain in the hearts of those who were already close to him,” Felix said. “After that day, every time we go on the field we will remember him and play in part for him.”
Felix was among those who attended the brothers’ funeral, joining teammates, friends, and fans in mourning the sudden loss.
The 25-year-old attacker recently signed for Saudi side Al Nassr from Chelsea in a transfer worth around £43.7 million ($58m), reuniting with fellow Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo. Reports suggest he will earn close to $10 million annually.
