´Heartbroken´ Klopp pays tribute to Diogo Jota

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Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has paid an emotional tribute to Diogo Jota after the forward was killed in a car crash.

Jota, who was signed for Liverpool by Klopp in September 2020, was killed in an accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre Silva, shortly after midnight local time on Thursday.

The incident took place in the Spanish province of Zamora. Jota’s brother was 26 and also a professional footballer who played for the Portuguese second-tier team Penafiel.

“This is a moment where I struggle!” Klopp said in a post on Instagram. “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 Andre.

“Diogo was 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.”

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A post shared by Jürgen Klopp (@kloppo)

Jota made 182 appearances for Liverpool after completing his move to Anfield, with 145 of those coming during Klopp’s tenure.

He also helped the Reds win the Premier League in 2024-25 under Arne Slot.

Jota spent the last eight years of his career in the Premier League, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also condoled his death.

“Let me start with Jota, because this is devastating news,” he told reporters.

“I’m sure I speak for everyone in saying our first thoughts are going to be with his family and his friends in particular. But there are millions of Liverpool fans, but also football fans, and non-fans, who will also be shocked by this.

“I think Liverpool Football Club have put a statement out, as I understand it, but it is devastating, and it is really important we bear in mind just how difficult a period this will be for his friends and for his family.”