How Did Portugal Honor Jota's No. 21 Jersey?
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Synopsis
In a moving tribute to the late Diogo Jota, Portugal has transferred his No. 21 jersey to Ruben Neves, his close friend and former teammate. This heartfelt gesture highlights the enduring bond between them and the impact Jota had on his teammates. Discover how this tribute unites the national team in their pursuit of World Cup dreams.
Key Takeaways
- Portugal honors Diogo Jota by transferring his No. 21 jersey to Ruben Neves.
- Ruben Neves was a pallbearer at Jota’s funeral, highlighting their bond.
- Jota tragically passed away in a car accident.
- The team aims to achieve their World Cup dreams in Jota’s honor.
- Liverpool retired Jota’s No. 20 jersey as a sign of respect.
Oeiras (Portugal), Aug 30 (NationPress) Portugal has decided to pay tribute to Diogo Jota by passing his No. 21 national team jersey to his close friend and former teammate Ruben Neves. This heartfelt gesture was announced by head coach Roberto Martinez approximately a month after the forward tragically lost his life in a car accident.
Neves, who currently plays in midfield for Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal, took on the role of pallbearer at Jota’s funeral, highlighting the profound bond they shared both on and off the field. Jota, aged 28, lost his life alongside his younger brother, Andre Silva, in a horrific accident in northwestern Spain, where their Lamborghini crashed and caught fire. This tragedy has brought the national team together in a time of shared sorrow and determination. The two were teammates during their tenure at Wolverhampton Wanderers, where they developed a strong friendship through their experiences in club and international football.
“We recognize the significance of Diogo in our lives and the legacy he has left behind. We aim to remember him every day. His spirit will guide us as we strive for our goals. Diogo serves as a beacon for us. We will carry his essence in our hearts,” Martinez remarked to the media on Friday.
“His absence has become a source of unity, inspiration, and accountability, as Diogo dreamed of winning the World Cup, and we are here to pursue that dream. I am also pleased to announce that the number 21 jersey will be handed over to Ruben Neves, ensuring that his number continues to be present on the pitch, representing both his legacy and our friendship.”
Martinez articulated that Jota’s passing serves both as an emotional cornerstone and a motivating force, intertwining the team’s aspirations for the World Cup with a collective homage that keeps his spirit alive on the field. Assigning the jersey to Neves guarantees that Jota’s number will be visible during competitions, recognizing Neves as a guardian of his friend’s memory. This choice underscores their enduring connection and shared history at both club and international levels, making the tribute resonate profoundly within the team.
Tributes have also poured in from club football, with Liverpool retiring the No. 20 shirt that Jota wore during his time at Anfield as a permanent sign of respect. Former teammate of Jota at Liverpool, James Milner of Brighton & Hove Albion, will don the No. 20 jersey this season as a tribute to the late forward.
Point of View
We recognize the profound impact of Diogo Jota's tragic passing on the Portuguese national team and the football community at large. The decision to honor his legacy through Ruben Neves is a testament to the strong bonds formed in sports. Such gestures not only celebrate a player's achievements but also reinforce the unity and resilience of the team as they strive for their goals.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who received Diogo Jota's No. 21 jersey?
Ruben Neves received Diogo Jota's No. 21 jersey as a tribute to their friendship and shared history.
Why was the No. 21 jersey transferred?
The transfer of the No. 21 jersey was a way to honor Diogo Jota's memory and keep his spirit alive within the national team.
What happened to Diogo Jota?
Diogo Jota tragically passed away in a car accident alongside his younger brother, Andre Silva, in northwestern Spain.
How did Ruben Neves honor Diogo Jota at his funeral?
Ruben Neves served as a pallbearer at Diogo Jota's funeral, demonstrating their close friendship.
What is the significance of the No. 21 jersey for the team?
The No. 21 jersey symbolizes the memory of Diogo Jota and serves as a source of motivation and unity for the Portuguese national team.
