Diogo Jota’s widow helps carry his coffin as hundreds gather for football star’s funeral

Portugal’s Prime Minister Luis Montenegro and President Marcelo de Sousa were among those paying respects, while Gondomar Town Hall declared July 4 an official day of mourning, calling Jota “an extraordinary talent and a true ambassador for Gondomar,” The Telegraph reported.

Local priest Jose Manuel Macedo reflected the community’s grief, stating: “We’re available to celebrate [their life] with everyone and to share the pain and the Christian hope.”

Virgil van Dijk, football player for Liverpool FC, carries a floral tribute which reads “20” as he arrives at Jota and Silva’s funeral. Credit: Octavio Passos / Getty

Liverpool Football Club said they were “devastated” by the tragedy, with supporters flooding Anfield with flowers and scarves in Jota’s memory.

Jota, who joined Liverpool in 2020 from Wolves, helped the club win the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup, scoring six goals in 26 appearances during the 2024/25 season and helping Portugal secure the Nations League title just weeks before his death.

Our thoughts continue to be with Jota and Silva’s loved ones at this time.