Liverpool forward Diogo Jota has tragically died in a car crash, aged 28.
The Portugal forward’s brother Andre Silva also lost his life in the accident, which took place in the Spanish province of Zamora today.
The 26-year-old Andre Silva was also a professional footballer, playing for Portuguese second-tier club Penafiel.
The Guardia Civil revealed that Jota and his brother died at about 12.30am local time today.
They said that their car, a Lamborghini, left the road due to a tyre blowout while overtaking another vehicle and then caught fire.
Jota married his long-term partner Rute Cardoso, with whom he had three children, just last month.
He recently posted pictures on social media, external of the ceremony, which took place on 22 June.
Jota helped Liverpool win the English Premier League title last season and also played for Portugal as they beat Spain in the final of the UEFA Nations League in June.
“The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) and all of Portuguese football are completely devastated,” read a FPF statement.
“Much more than an amazing player, with almost 50 international appearances, Diogo Jota was an extraordinary person, respected by all team-mates and opponents, someone with an infectious joy and a reference in the community itself.
“We have lost two champions. The passing of Diogo and Andre Silva represents irreparable losses for Portuguese football, and we will do everything to honor their legacy daily.”
The FPF has requested that European football’s governing body UEFA observe a minute’s silence before Portugal’s Women’s Euros game against Spain later today.
Jota spent the 2016-2017 season on loan with Porto, where his brother was a youth player.
“It is with shock and deep sorrow that we send our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva,” read a club statement. “Rest in peace.”
With agency report