The football world is in mourning following the tragic death of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, in a car accident. The loss has been felt deeply by Jota's former teammates, including Ruben Neves, who shared a close bond with the 28-year-old.
Neves, currently playing for Al-Hilal, was visibly emotional during a minute's silence held before Al-Hilal's Club World Cup quarter-final match against Fluminense on Friday. Overcome with grief, Neves broke down in tears, as did his teammate Joao Cancelo, who also played with Jota for Portugal.
Despite his professional commitments in the Club World Cup, Neves made the journey to Portugal to attend Jota's funeral in Gondomar on Saturday. Demonstrating the depth of their friendship, Neves served as one of the pallbearers, carrying Jota's coffin alongside family members and close friends. His presence at the funeral, just hours after competing in a high-profile match, underscores the profound respect and affection he held for Jota.
Neves also posted a touching tribute to Jota on Instagram, a message that resonated deeply with fans across the globe. "Bro, wherever you are, I know you'll read this," Neves wrote. "We've never been this sloppy and maybe now I regret it a little, but you know what you mean to me as much as I know what I mean to you." He continued, "More than a friendship, we're family, and we won't stop being that just because you've decided to sign a contract a little further away from us." Neves poignantly added, "When I go to the national team, you will continue to be by my side at the dinner table, on the bus, on the plane... you will always be there with me, as usual."
Neves and Jota's connection dates back to their time together at FC Porto's youth ranks and later at Wolverhampton Wanderers, where they formed a formidable partnership from 2017 to 2020. Together, they contributed significantly to Wolves' promotion to the Premier League and their subsequent success in the English top flight. Their shared experiences on and off the field forged a bond that transcended the typical teammate relationship.
The funeral ceremony in Gondomar was attended by thousands, including prominent figures from the footballing world. Liverpool players and staff, including Virgil van Dijk and manager Arne Slot, were also present to pay their respects. Alisson Becker, Jota's Liverpool teammate, shared a moving tribute and promised to support Jota's partner, Rute. The outpouring of grief and support highlights the impact Jota had on the lives of many.
Neves's presence as a pallbearer and his heartfelt tribute serve as a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the profound loss felt by those who knew Diogo Jota. His actions exemplify the deep bonds that can be forged in the world of football, where teammates become family.
