Former teammates shed tears while talking about Diogo Jota

The unexpected departure of Diogo Jota caused a significant shock to Portuguese football and supporters around the globe.

In a recent interview, Rafael Leao could not hold back tears when recalling his close teammate. The AC Milan star admitted that the entire Portuguese national team always carries Jota’s memory with them whenever they step onto the field.

Speaking on CBS television, Leao emotionally said: “In every match, we think about him. After every game, he was always there celebrating, especially when scoring goals. And now, every time we play, we remember him.”

According to Leao, Jota was not only a talented forward but also a warm-hearted and humble person. In the locker room, the former Liverpool player was loved by everyone. “Everyone cared about him. Sometimes he would sit in a corner talking with his wife and kids, but he was always ready to help his teammates, including me,” Leao recalled.

Simple memories like Jota asking Leao to get tickets for his family to watch AC Milan games show a man who valued family above all else. That sincerity makes his passing even more painful for his teammates. Diogo Jota died in a tragic road accident in Zamora, Spain, when the car he was driving suddenly suffered a tire blowout and lost control. This news shocked fans and devastated the Portuguese national team.

However, according to Leao, that pain has now turned into motivation. The players regard Jota’s memory as a source of strength to fight in every match, especially as they aim for major trophies ahead. “We want to do something special for him,” Leao emphasized.

The loss of Diogo Jota is not only a professional setback but also an emotional void that’s hard to fill. Yet, the love and unity he inspired continue to keep the Portuguese team strong. In the upcoming journey, every goal and victory will carry a tribute to their departed teammate.