Early Life
Diogo José Teixeira da Silva was born on 4 December 1996 in Porto, Portugal.
He grew up in Gondomar with his younger brother, André.
He started playing football at age nine.
Then, he joined Gondomar SC’s youth system.
Soon after, he moved to Paços de Ferreira for youth football.
Club Career
Paços de Ferreira
He made his senior debut in 2014.
In two seasons, he played 41 times and scored 14 league goals.
He gained attention for his pace and finishing.
Atlético Madrid & Porto
In 2016, he signed with Atlético Madrid.
However, he never made a first‑team appearance.
Instead, he was loaned to Porto in the same season.
At Porto, he added eight league goals from 27 appearances.
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Then, he joined Wolves on loan in 2017.
He scored 17 goals in the Championship.
Thus, he helped Wolves win promotion.
The move became permanent in 2018.
Over two Premier League seasons, he contributed 16 goals in 67 matches.
Liverpool FC
In September 2020, Liverpool signed Jota.
He arrived for about £45 million (€43–45 m).
He adapted quickly as a versatile forward.
Over five seasons, he made 182 appearances and scored 65 goals.
He helped Liverpool win:
- FA Cup (2022)
- Carabao Cups (2022, 2024)
- Premier League (2024‑25)
Style of Play
Jota was highly versatile.
He could play across the front line and as a false nine.
He had clinical finishing and explosive speed.
He used both feet well.
He pressed hard and tracked back often.
International Career
He debuted for Portugal’s senior team in 2019.
He had 49 caps and scored 14 goals by mid‑2025.
He was part of Portugal’s Nations League wins in 2019 and 2025.
Off‑Field Life
His full name is Diogo José Teixeira da Silva.
He chose “Jota” to stand out (“J” = José).
He was also an avid gamer.
He ranked world No 1 in FIFA 21 PlayStation.
He founded an esports team called Luna Galaxy.
Personal Life
In June 2025, he married his long‑term partner, Rute Cardoso.
They had three children.
His brother André (born 2000) was also a footballer.
André played for F.C. Penafiel in Liga Portugal 2.
Tragic Death
On 3 July 2025, Jota and his brother died in a car accident.
It happened on Spain’s A‑52 motorway near Zamora.
Their Lamborghini suffered a tyre blow‑out while overtaking.
It crashed, caught fire, and both died at the scene.
He was just 28 years old.
Liverpool and the Portuguese FA paid deep tributes.
Legacy
He leaves behind a lasting impact.
He rose from Porto’s youth ranks to Premier League stardom.
He won major trophies with Liverpool and Portugal.
He inspired fans with both his on-field skill and down‑to‑earth personality.
His sudden passing shocked the football world.
He will be remembered fondly by supporters, teammates, and his country.
Summary:
Diogo Jota’s journey was one of talent, versatility, and dedication. His rise from Gondomar to Anfield showcased his relentless climb. Off the pitch, gaming and family life showed another side of him. His untimely death at 28 left a profound void. Yet, his achievements and spirit ensure his memory lives on.