8 things you should know about late Liverpool forward, Diogo Jota

Diogo José Teixeira da Silva, better known as Diogo Jota, a Portuguese and Liverpool footballer has  tragically passed away.

He died on July 3, 2025, alongside his brother, just ten days after marrying his longtime partner, Route Cardoso, leaving behind a grieving family and a footballing world in shock.

Known for his explosive pace, tireless pressing, and unshakable humility, Jota rose from modest beginnings in Portugal to make his mark at the highest levels of the game.

From his breakout years in Paços de Ferreira to his triumphant run with Liverpool and the Portuguese national team, Jota’s legacy is one of grit, excellence, and unrelenting dedication.

Here are eight key things to know about the late Liverpool and Portugal forward;

1. Born in Porto on December 4, 1996, Jota began his youth career at Gondomar before moving to Paços de Ferreira, where he made his professional debut at age 17, becoming the youngest player to score in the club’s top-flight history.

2. Though born Diogo José Teixeira da Silva, he adopted the nickname “Jota”, the Portuguese pronunciation of the letter “J” to distinguish himself from other players with similar names.

It eventually became his global football identity.

3. In 2016, Jota signed with Atlético Madrid but was loaned out instead of playing for them.

His real breakthrough came at Wolverhampton Wanderers, where he helped the club earn promotion to the Premier League.

His success there led to a £41 million move to Liverpool in 2020.

4. Jota hit the ground running at Anfield. He scored on his Premier League debut and became the first Liverpool player since Robbie Fowler to score seven goals in his first 10 appearances.

He went on to win the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup with the club.

5. Jota earned 49 senior caps and scored 14 goals for the Portuguese national team.

He was part of the squads that won the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025, and also featured in Euro 2020 and Euro 2024.

6. Off the pitch, Jota was an elite FIFA player. In 2021, he topped the FIFA 21 Global Champions Leaderboard and later founded his own eSports team, Luna Galaxy.

He often streamed online and connected with fans through gaming.

7. On June 22, 2025, Jota married his longtime partner Rute Cardoso.

The couple had three children. Just 10 days later, he and his brother André died in a fatal car crash in Spain, cutting short what had been a joyous period in his life.

8. Jota finished his career with 133 goals in 395 club appearances, but his legacy went far beyond stats.

Known for his work ethic, humility, and team-first mentality, he was respected by fans, teammates, and coaches alike.

Whether pressing defenders or tracking back, Jota always gave everything.