With emotional words, Diogo Jota’s widow thanked Liverpool FC and its fans for their gestures in honor of the ex-football star who died in an accident. She thanks the club and its supporters “from the bottom of my heart for the love, respect and support during this incredibly difficult time,” wrote Rute Cardoso on social media.
Van Dijk arrives with Diogo Jota’s sons
The league game between England’s football champions Liverpool and Wolverhampton Wanderers (2-1) on Saturday was all about the former professional from both clubs. Among others, Jota’s sons Dinis and Duarte ran onto the pitch alongside Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk before kick-off.
A mural in honor of the former Portuguese striker was previously unveiled near the stadium. It shows Jota forming his hands into a heart. It says “Forever 20” underneath. Jota’s shirt number 20 will no longer be used by the Reds after his death. The game was the first meeting between Liverpool and Wolves since the accident.
Fatal accident shortly after the wedding
The messages and gestures meant more to her than words could express, said Jota’s widow Cardoso. She and her two sons had already attended the Premier League opening games in Liverpool and Wolverhampton in August.
Jota died in a car accident in Spain in July along with his brother André Silva. He was 28 years old. He and Cardoso had married just two weeks before his death.