Liverpool icon Jurgen Klopp has paid tribute to Diogo Jota after the death of the footballer at the age of 28.
The Portugal international and his brother, Andre Silva, were killed when their Lamborghini suffered a tyre blowout in Zamora in the early hours of Thursday morning.
Liverpool have since confirmed Jota's death, with the club flying their flag at half mast in his honour.
Klopp was in charge of the Reds when they recruited the winger from Wolves back in 2020, with the duo winning trophies such as the FA Cup and Carabao Cup together.
Jurgen Klopp has spoken out after the death of Diogo Jota
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Now, Klopp has paid tribute to Jota on social media. The German 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, J."
Jurgen Klopp called Diogo Jota "a great friend" in his statement
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Liverpool FC released a statement on their website earlier today, in which the club said: "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."
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The death has sent shockwaves through the footballing world, with the Portuguese FA also issuing a statement: “The Portuguese Football Federation expresses its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Diogo and André Silva, as well as to Liverpool FC and FC Penafiel, the clubs where the players played respectively.
"The Portuguese Football Federation have already asked Uefa for a minute's silence this Thursday, before our team's match against Spain in the Women's European Championship.
Diogo Jota scored 65 goals in 182 appearances for the club
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"We have lost two champions. The passing of Diogo and André Silva represents an irreparable loss for Portuguese football and we will do everything we can to honour their legacy every day.”
The Liverpool star had only married his long-term partner two weeks before his death, with his last post on social media coming less than 24 hours before the accident.
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