Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva have died in a car crash in Spain, with their bodies now returned to Portugal ahead of a funeral on Saturday.
The 28-year-old footballer and his 25-year-old sibling were killed when their Lamborghini crashed on a motorway near Zamora in northwestern Spain shortly after midnight on Thursday. The vehicle burst into flames following the collision.
Spanish authorities confirmed the brothers' bodies have been repatriated to Portugal following identification by family members.
The funeral service is scheduled to take place at Capela da Ressurreição São Cosme in Gondomar on Saturday.
Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva have died in a car crash in Spain, with their bodies now returned to Portugal ahead of a funeral on Saturday
GETTY
Mourners gathered at the chapel on Friday, with some embracing and crying as they entered the building where the wake is being held.
The brothers were discovered after their luxury vehicle crashed on an isolated section of motorway and caught fire.
The accident occurred just two weeks after Jota married his long-term partner Rute Cardoso during a holiday following Liverpool's Premier League title victory. The couple have three young children together, with their youngest born last year.
JUST IN: Diogo Jota's physio firmly denies rumour about Liverpool star after tragic death aged 28
Diogo Jota won three major trophies during his time at Liverpool
GETTY
Both Jota and his parents maintain residences in Gondomar, the working-class town adjacent to Porto where the footballer began his youth career.
Spanish police are conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, which did not involve any other vehicles, according to authorities.
Jota was born in Porto and began his football journey as a youngster in Gondomar, where the funeral service will be held.
READ MORE: Diogo Jota phone call details emerge after heartbreaking death of Liverpool star
The town holds special significance for the family, with both the player and his parents owning properties there.
The tragedy has devastated the football community, coming at a time when Jota should have been celebrating both his recent marriage and Liverpool's successful season.
He leaves behind his wife Rute and their three children.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
Liverpool boss Arne Slot has paid tribute to Jota. The Dutchman said in a statement: "My condolences go to Diogo’s wife, Rute, their three beautiful children and to the parents of Diogo and Andre Silva.
"When the time is right, we will celebrate Diogo Jota, we will remember his goals and we will sing his song.
"For the time being, we will remember him as a unique human being and mourn his loss. He will never be forgotten."
Jorge Mendes, Diogo Jota's agent, was left in tears after accompanying the Liverpool star's mother to a funeral home
GETTY
Jurgen Klopp, who signed Jota in 2020, said: “This is a moment where I struggle! 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 André. 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”.
Most Read
