Diogo Jota’s true colours shown in message over brother Andre Silva before death

Diogoa Jota and his brother Andre Siva have sadly died in a car accident, and it’s now coming to light just how much respect the Liverpool star had for his talented footballer sibling

Diogo Jota once claimed that his brother Andre, who also tragically died in the crash that claimed the Liverpool star’s life, was his favourite player to watch. Jota passed away following a fatal car crash in northwest Spain.

The forward, 28, died alongside his brother Andre Silva, who was also in the car. The accident occurred at around 12:40am near the city of Zamora, which is close to the Portuguese border.

While the football world is in mourning, with many prominent names in the game paying tribute, the strong connection the brothers had with one another is now coming to light.

Appearing on ESPN’s Ball Knowledge in January of this year, Portuguese star Jota was asked what players did he enjoy watching, and why.

Without missing a beat, Jota said: “My brother,” before adding: “My brother plays in the second division in Portugal, [he is] by far the one I most enjoyed.”

The fact that Jota could’ve picked anyone in world football, after playing with and against some of football’s biggest stars, yet sided with Andre out of his deep love and respect is now more poignant than ever.

While Diogo’s accolades with Liverpool, including their recent Premier League success, are well-documented, Andre’s achievements are also notable.

As an attacking midfielder, he was currently playing with Portuguese second-tier team FC Penafiel, joining them in 2023 following his time with Gondomar. Throughout his career, he also played for Boavista and FC Famalicao’s under-23 side.

Andre racked up 102 appearances and scored 17 goals, mostly playing up across the forward line. His contributions this season were key as he scored twice and provided five assists in 32 games, helping his team secure an 11th-place finish in the league.

A statement released by Liverpool read: “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. We will continue to provide them with our full support.”

Portuguese giants FC Porto has also released a statement. Jota and Andre were both on the books at the Portuguese giants for a brief point in their careers.

Jota spent a season on loan at the club from Atletico Madrid in the 2016/17 season, while Andre was in the academy at Porto.

The club took to X, posting: “FC Porto is in mourning. It is with shock and deep sorrow that we send our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, who was also our athlete in the youth ranks. Rest in peace.”

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