Liverpool forward Luis Diaz has addressed the criticism he faced for not attending the funeral of his teammate Diogo Jota.
Tragically, Jota lost his life in a car accident in Spain and was interred alongside his brother in Sao Cosme, the location where the striker and his wife Rute Cardoso had celebrated their marriage just under two weeks earlier.
Numerous stars from Anfield made the journey to the vicinity of Porto to pay their respects at the funeral, including Virgil van Dijk and the club’s manager Arne Slot.
While other prominent figures, such as Cristiano Ronaldo, chose not to attend, fans were perplexed by Diaz’s absence as well.
Nevertheless, the Colombian has now spoken out regarding Jota’s passing for the first time since facing the backlash.
Liverpool forward Luis Diaz has responded to the criticism he received for not attending the funeral of his teammate Diogo Jota.
Tragically, Jota lost his life in a car accident in Spain and was laid to rest alongside his brother in Sao Cosme, the same place where the striker and his wife Rute Cardoso had celebrated their marriage just under two weeks prior.
Many stars from Anfield traveled to the area near Porto to pay their respects at the funeral, including Virgil van Dijk and the club’s manager Arne Slot.
While other notable figures, such as Cristiano Ronaldo, opted not to attend, fans were also confused by Diaz’s absence. However, the Colombian has now publicly addressed Jota’s passing for the first time since facing the backlash.
Speaking to WinSportsTV, Diaz elaborated on his feelings after learning of his teammate’s death, stating: Although Diaz did not directly explain why he missed the funeral, it is believed that the reason was due to the timing, as it occurred shortly after he had traveled to his homeland.
Diaz also reflected on Jota’s support during one of the most challenging times in his career.
In October 2023, the former Porto winger’s father was kidnapped and held hostage for 12 days before being reunited.
During this difficult period, Jota publicly supported his attacking partner, celebrating a goal against Nottingham Forest by lifting a jersey with Diaz’s name on it.
The forward recounted that moment while expressing the sorrow he felt over Jota’s premature death, saying: “He made a very nice gesture towards me, which I will never forget.”May he rest in peace. I hold a great friend in my heart, who will always be remembered by his team.
I want to extend my heartfelt strength to his family, his wife, and his children, as they are truly suffering a great deal from this.
“(It hurts) a lot, a lot. It was incredible when I woke up and saw the news. The truth is I broke down in tears. It was a very, very, very big pain.”