Al-Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves has strongly condemned a Portuguese magazine for its insensitive and disrespectful coverage of his relationship with Rute Cardoso, the widow of the late Liverpool forward Diogo Jota. The magazine, TV Guia, published a front-page feature speculating about a "special bond" between Neves and Cardoso, just weeks after Jota's tragic death in a car accident in July. The cover was captioned: "Ruben Neves and Rute United After Death. How Jota's widow leans on her best friend".
Neves, who played alongside Jota at Wolverhampton Wanderers, has been a source of support for Cardoso and her three children following Jota's passing. The magazine's article and cover photo, which appeared to capture a moment of affection between Neves and Cardoso, sparked outrage and accusations of sensationalism.
In response, Neves took to Instagram to express his anger and disappointment. He defended his relationship with his wife, Debora Lourenco, stating that they have been happily married for over 11 years and have never been involved in any controversy. He further explained that he and his wife have been doing their best to support Cardoso and her family during this difficult time.
Neves directly addressed the magazine's decision to publish the photo, stating, "The person who put this photo on the magazine cover doesn't deserve to be happy, just as their choice wasn't a happy one". He added, "The choice of this photo is as unfortunate as the person who chose it and the person who posted it". He also said, "I respect that everyone has their own work, I respect that everyone wants to do their best, and I don't respect those who don't respect others".
The football world was left in shock after Jota, 28, and his brother Andre Silva, 25, died in a car crash in Zamora, Spain, in July. Just 11 days before the accident, Jota had married his longtime partner, Rute Cardoso, with whom he shared three children. Tributes poured in from across the world, and Wolverhampton Wanderers, where both Diogo Jota and Ruben Neves played, paid their respects ahead of their Premier League opener against Manchester City on August 16. Neves was seen offering support to Cardoso during the emotional occasion.
Neves has also honored Jota's memory in other ways. He recently got a tattoo of himself and Jota embracing, featuring Jota's Portugal No. 21 jersey. He also took part in a ceremony where he delivered a heartfelt letter to Jota. Furthermore, Neves now wears the number 21 shirt for Portugal as a tribute to his late friend, a gesture approved by manager Roberto Martinez. Liverpool retired Jota's iconic 20 shirt.
The controversy surrounding TV Guia's cover has sparked widespread criticism of the magazine's insensitivity and exploitation of a tragic situation. Fans and media observers have praised Neves for defending his family and honoring Jota's memory while supporting his widow and children.
