Liverpool FC Family Unites to Show Support After Diogo Jota’s Widow’s Heartfelt Message

August 13, 2025 – The football world has come together to show an outpouring of support for Rute Jota, the widow of Liverpool FC star Diogo Jota, after her emotional message following the tragic passing of her husband. The Portuguese forward, who died unexpectedly in July, left behind not only a devastated family but also a deeply shaken football community. As the world mourns his loss, Rute has found solace in the overwhelming support from the Liverpool FC family and the wider football world.

After Diogo’s untimely death, Rute shared a heartfelt message on social media, thanking everyone for their kindness and support during what has been an incredibly difficult time. In her post, she reflected on the grief of losing her partner so suddenly and spoke of the love and memories they shared in their time together.

“I cannot find words to express the gratitude I feel for all the love and support you have shown us,” Rute wrote. “Diogo was an amazing man, a wonderful partner, and an extraordinary father. His loss is beyond measure, but knowing that his memory lives on in the hearts of so many gives us strength.”

In response to her message, the partners of Liverpool FC players, both past and present, came together to show their solidarity. The families of the team’s players, as well as former Liverpool stars, shared a white heart in their social media posts, symbolizing unity and love for Rute and the Jota family during this painful time. The gesture, while simple, was deeply symbolic of the football community’s strength and solidarity.

The Brothers’ Final Resting Place: A Private Service in Gondomar

The funeral of Diogo Jota and his brother, João Jota, who also tragically passed away, was held in their hometown of Gondomar, Portugal, on Saturday, July 5. The service was attended by close family and friends, with many from the football world sending their thoughts and prayers to the family. It was a deeply emotional ceremony as the two brothers, who had shared much of their lives together, were laid to rest side by side.

The loss of both brothers has left a gaping hole in the hearts of their family, and their community in Gondomar has rallied around them in their time of grief. Local football clubs, as well as international figures, offered their condolences, acknowledging the lasting impact Diogo had on the football community.

A Global Outpouring of Support

While the funeral took place in Portugal, tributes have been pouring in from around the world. Football clubs, players, and fans have all united to honor Diogo Jota’s memory, with many taking to social media to express their sadness and share their support for Rute and the Jota family.

The tribute from the Liverpool FC family has been one of the most visible gestures. In addition to the white heart shared by the partners of Liverpool players, the club itself has made an official statement expressing their condolences and confirming that Diogo’s memory will be honored both within the club and in the wider football community.

“The entire Liverpool FC family is deeply saddened by the loss of Diogo Jota,” the club’s statement read. “Our thoughts are with Rute and the entire Jota family. Diogo was an exceptional player, but more than that, he was a beloved member of our club, and he will be greatly missed. We will carry his memory with us always.”

Jota’s Final Days and His Lasting Legacy at Liverpool

Jota had married his long-term partner, Rute, in a beautiful ceremony just weeks before his death, marking a new chapter in their lives together. The couple, who had been together for several years, were excited about the future, and their wedding was a joyful occasion for the Jota family. Tragically, Jota’s life was cut short, leaving Rute to navigate life without the man she had married so recently.

Despite the tragic circumstances, Rute has continued to express her deep love and gratitude for the time she and Diogo shared. In the days following his passing, she shared that while the grief was overwhelming, the memories of Diogo’s kindness, passion, and dedication to his family and career continue to provide comfort.

“He was the best of us all,” Rute shared in her emotional message. “I will cherish our time together forever. His memory will live on in everything we do.”

A Lasting Tribute: Liverpool’s Plans for Diogo Jota

In addition to the outpouring of support from the Liverpool FC family, plans are being made to honor Diogo Jota’s legacy in a lasting way. The club has announced that they will retire his number 20 shirt for the upcoming season, ensuring that no one will wear it in future matches. A permanent tribute in the form of a plaque at Anfield will also be unveiled to commemorate Jota’s time at the club and the impact he made during his career.

“We want to make sure that Diogo’s legacy is never forgotten,” said Liverpool head coach Arne Slot. “His contributions to this club and to the game were immeasurable, and he was loved by everyone here. We will ensure that his memory lives on through our actions and in the hearts of all those who knew him.”

Support Continues: The Strength of the Football Family

As the Jota family continues to grieve, the outpouring of support from the football world and beyond will remain a source of strength. Rute’s message of gratitude was a testament to the incredible love that has been shown to her and her family, and she continues to lean on those around her for comfort. While the pain of losing Diogo is immeasurable, the support from the football community has provided a foundation for healing in the months ahead.

In the coming season, the ‘Forever 20’ emblem worn by Liverpool players will stand as a symbol of Diogo Jota’s enduring legacy, ensuring that his contributions to the club and to the sport will never be forgotten.