Portugal will honor the late Diogo Jota by having his close friend Ruben Neves wear his No. 21 shirt. Coach Roberto Martinez announced the tribute, highlighting Jota’s impact on the team and their determination to honor his memory during the upcoming World Cup qualification campaign. The gesture symbolizes the team’s unity and serves as a constant reminder of Jota’s legacy and the strong bond between the players.
The Portugal national team is set to honor the memory of Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away recently, in a touching tribute. Roberto Martinez, the national team coach, has confirmed that Ruben Neves, a close friend and former teammate of Jota, will wear the No. 21 shirt, previously worn by Jota, during the upcoming international fixtures.
The gesture serves as a poignant reminder of Jota's impact on the team and the deep personal connections he forged during his time representing Portugal. The loss of the 28-year-old Jota, alongside his brother Andre Silva in a car accident in northern Spain on July 3, has deeply affected the Portuguese football community. Martinez emphasized the profound impact Jota had on everyone involved with the national team.
Ruben Neves, who shared the field with Jota at both Wolves and for the national team, played a significant role in honoring his friend's memory. He was a pallbearer at Jota's funeral and accompanied Jota's wife to Molineux for tributes during a match against Manchester City, demonstrating the close bond they shared.
Martinez addressed the media during Friday's press conference, where he announced his international squad and confirmed that Neves would continue to honor Jota by wearing his former shirt number. The coach highlighted the emotional weight of the upcoming matches, marking the first time the team would gather without Jota's presence.
"This is the first working camp without Diogo Jota," Martinez stated. "We know what Diogo meant to each of us, the impact he had on our lives. We want to honour his memory every day. He will be with us and be another force in achieving our goals. Diogo Jota’s example is a light for us. We will carry his spirit in our hearts." Martinez further expressed the team's determination to dedicate their upcoming performances to Jota and his brother, Andre, while continuing to represent the pride of the Portuguese people. “We will win for Diogo, for his brother Andre, and as always, for all Portuguese people," he affirmed.
The coach also framed their journey to qualify for the 2026 World Cup as one inspired by Jota’s memory. "In this new journey to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, the number of players is 23 + 1, which is Diogo.”
The decision to have Neves wear Jota's No. 21 shirt is a deeply symbolic gesture, reflecting the unity and camaraderie within the Portugal squad. It serves as a constant reminder of Jota's spirit and contribution to the team. It is expected that Neves will wear the jersey with pride and determination, honoring his friend's legacy on the pitch.
The Portugal national team will aim to channel their grief and use it as motivation as they embark on their qualification campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The memory of Diogo Jota will undoubtedly serve as a powerful driving force for the team as they pursue their goals. Each match will be played with Jota in their hearts, ensuring that his legacy lives on through their performances.
Beyond the emotional significance, the tribute also highlights the strong sense of community and solidarity within the world of football. The sport often transcends mere competition, forging deep bonds and friendships that extend beyond the pitch. The gesture of honoring Jota’s memory is a testament to the human element of the game and the enduring power of friendship.
As Portugal prepares for their upcoming matches, the presence of Jota's spirit will undoubtedly be felt by every member of the team. The No. 21 shirt, now worn by Neves, will serve as a constant reminder of his legacy, inspiring the team to strive for greatness and honor his memory with every performance.
The footballing world joins Portugal in mourning the loss of a talented player and celebrating the enduring power of friendship and remembrance.
Nesta Qualificação, somos 23+