This is by far one of the most difficult articles to write about, as we decided to feature Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva in our Spotlights category. Both incredible human beings passed away last week in a car accident in Spain and left their families, friends and the world way too soon. This is not a usual article with big headlines or catchy words, this is an article to stay forever and honour Diogo and André for what they’ve done outside of the world of football.
The Brothers who Lived Life for the Good
The two brothers who were buried in their hometown Gondomar not far from Porto last weekend, made their way up into the world of professional football. While Diogo Jota played for the Premier-League club FC Liverpool, his younger brother made it to the Portuguese team FC Penafiel. However, both of them will be remembered as very down-to-earth.
While we never met André Silva personally, we had the honour to meet Diogo Jota before a pre-season tournament with Wolverhampton Wanderers in Germany in 2018. There, he took a lot of time for the few fans who were waiting for the team to arrive. This also described Diogo Jota very well, because he wasn’t someone who was looking for attention or to be in the spotlight. He was very authentic, kind and positive.
Diogo Jota: Kindness Off the Pitch
Another story about Diogo Jota that just recently came out took place in 2021, when youth coach Ste Davies was going through a personal battle, as his son Liam was seriously ill. Right in the middle of nowhere during a tough season, Jota took the time and recorded a personal video message for Liam. It just came out as Ste Davies posted the video this week in order to thank Diogo Jota again for his gesture. It’s also one of the moments that show Jota’s kindness and care for people.
However, this was not the only time Jota did gestures like this. During the horrible Southport attack at a summer dance club, Sergio Aguiar lost her 9-years old daughter Alice. Therefore, Sergio prepared to run the London Marathon in his daughter’s memory and to raise funds for a new playground to be built in her name at her school. Also here, Diogo Jota supported Sergio and sent him a personal video message. In the end, Sergio collected enough money to build the playground.
Photo from FC Porto
So let’s take both of them as an inspiration to live life and spread kindness. Finally, we want to express our sincere condolences and wish the family, friends and loved ones of Diogo and André a lot of strenght and love during this difficult time!
Muito obrigado Diogo and André. We will never forget you 🖤
