"It was a very, very, very big pain"

When news of Diogo Jota’s sudden death on July 3, 2025 reached Luis Díaz, the Colombian winger said the emotions overwhelmed him. Díaz described breaking down in tears as he learned of Jota’s passing, calling it a profound sorrow and emphasising the depth of their bond.

A friendship rooted in welcome and respect
Díaz reflected on the moment he arrived at Liverpool in January 2022, and the welcome he received from Jota and his family. He recalled how Jota’s gesture of solidarity during a distressing moment in 2023—holding up Díaz’s shirt after a goal in response to the kidnapping of the Colombian’s father—etched a lasting memory. That moment, Díaz said, symbolised genuine compassion and underscores the values that defined their friendship.

“We became great friends…”
Speaking to Win Sports, Díaz shared how integrated he felt as part of Liverpool, thanks largely to Jota’s support. He highlighted their competitive but caring dynamic, with Jota playing a key role in helping him adapt at Anfield. This friendship, he said, extended well beyond the pitch.

Funeral absence and public reaction
Luis Díaz did not attend Jota’s funeral in Gondomar—held over the weekend following a public wake. He was in Colombia at the time, having returned home before the tragedy occurred. This absence drew criticism, particularly after photos surfaced of him at a local event during the same period. Fans on social media reminded him of Jota’s 2023 tribute and questioned whether he had shown enough respect.

Historical context: from teammates to brothers-in-arms
Their story began in the Porto academy, grew in Wolverhampton, and matured at Liverpool. When Díaz arrived at the club, Jota’s welcoming nature helped him settle, forging an immediate bond. Their relationship was public and celebrated—two international forwards who trusted each other implicitly. That 2023 goal celebration was not merely a football gesture; it was an act of solidarity during Díaz’s darkest hour.

In the broader narrative of modern football, where friendship and unity are often tested by expectations, the bond between Díaz and Jota stood out. In their time together, they helped Liverpool lift every major domestic trophy, and were pivotal in Portugal’s success in the UEFA Nations League .

Díaz’s tribute today: forging understanding
Though absent from the funeral, Díaz has since spoken openly about his grief. He emphasised the difficulty of processing such loss, and sent heartfelt messages to Jota’s widow and children. He affirmed that Jota will always hold a place in his heart, and vowed to honour his memory— both as a teammate and as a brother .