Jurgen Klopp says he is ‘heartbroken’ at the death of Liverpool star and ‘great friend’ Diogo Jota.
Former Liverpool manager Klopp was responsible for bringing Jota to Anfield in a £45m move from Wolves in 2020.
The Portugal international enjoyed a superb career at Liverpool, helping the Reds win the Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup and reach the Champions League final.
Klopp, who stepped down as Liverpool boss 12 months ago, regarded Jota as not only a ‘fantastic player’ but a ‘great friend’.
The 28-year-old was killed in a car accident in the Spanish province of Zamora which also claimed the life of his 25-year-old brother Andre Silva.
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‘This is a moment where I struggle,’ Klopp said on social media. ‘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 a 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 – Love J.’
Jota scored 65 goals in 182 appearances for Liverpool and became a Premier League title winner just a few months ago.
Liverpool and Wolves release statements on tragic death of Diogo Jota
‘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.’
‘Everyone at Wolves Football Club are heartbroken. Diogo was adored by our fans, loved by his team-mates and cherished by everyone who worked with him.
‘The memories he created will never be forgotten. Our hearts go out to the family, friends and loved ones of Diogo and his brother.’
The Portugal international married his long-term partner Rute Cardoso at the end of last month. They had three children together.
Following confirmation of Jota’s tragic death, the Premier League said in a statement: ‘Everyone at the Premier League is shocked and devastated to learn of the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre.
‘Our sincerest condolences go to Diogo’s family, friends, Liverpool FC, and all their supporters at this heartbreaking time.
‘Football has lost a champion who will be forever missed. We will continue to support our friends and colleagues at the club.’
Tributes have poured in for Jota, who spent three seasons at Wolves before moving to Anfield and was a key player for Portugal, playing in last month’s Nations League final against Spain.
His Liverpool teammate Darwin Nunez said: ‘There are no words of comfort for so much pain.
‘I will always remember you with your smile, as a good companion on and off the field.
‘I send all my strength to his family, from where he is I’m sure he will always be with you, especially his wife and three children.
‘May he rest in peace. Diogo and Andre.’
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