Jurgen Klopp releases emotional tribute to Diogo Jota after footballer's tragic passing

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has paid tribute to Diogo Jota after the 28-year-old died in a car crash in Spain alongside his brother Andre.

Klopp was manager at Liverpool in 2020 when Jota made his move to Anfield from Wolverhampton Wanderers for a fee of around £40 million.

Under Klopp's management, Jota was part of a Liverpool side that won the FA Cup in 2022, as well as the League Cup in the same season and then won the trophy again in 2024.

The 28-year-old won the Premier League last season under the German's successor as Liverpool manager, Arne Slot, and Klopp posted a tribute to the Portuguese forward on social media.

He said he was 'heartbroken' to hear about the deaths of Diogo and André, and sent his love to Jota's widow Rute Cardoso who the footballer had married just last month.

Jurgen Klopp managed Diogo Jota for much of his time at Liverpool (Alex Livesey - Danehouse/Getty Images)

Klopp said: "This is a moment where I struggle! There must be a bigger purpose! But I can’t see it!

"I’m heartbroken to hear about the passing of Diogo and his brother André. Diogo was a not only a fantastic player, but also a great friend, a loving and 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."

Liverpool FC have also issued a statement on the death of Jota and his brother, with the club saying: "Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota.

“The club have been informed the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre.

“Liverpool FC will be making no further comment at this time and request the privacy of Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, teammates and club staff is respected as they try to come to terms with an unimaginable loss.

Jurgen Klopp said Jota was 'a great friend' as well as 'a loving and caring husband and father' (Jan Kruger/Getty Images)

"We will continue to provide them with our full support."

Jota's Portugal teammate Cristiano Ronaldo also paid tribute to the brothers. He had played together with Diogo for their country and they had won the Nations League together.

Ronaldo said: "It doesn't make sense. We were just together in the national team, and you had just gotten married.

"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."