Diogo Jota: Atlético Madrid’s Unseen Chapter
Diogo Jota, the well-regarded Portuguese forward, is most famously associated with Wolverhampton Wanderers and Liverpool. However, a lesser-known episode in his career connects him briefly to Atlético Madrid, a story that has recently attracted attention due to Jota’s untimely death in July 2025.
In the summer of 2016, Atlético Madrid, impressed by Jota’s strong season with Paços de Ferreira—where he tallied 14 goals and 10 assists—signed him for €7 million. Expectations were high that the young talent could flourish within their ranks. Yet, surprisingly, Jota never played a single official match for Atlético Madrid at either the Vicente Calderón or the Wanda Metropolitano stadiums.
Shortly after signing, the club loaned him out to FC Porto, where he gained valuable experience, including UEFA Champions League action. Following that season, Atlético again chose to loan him, this time to Wolverhampton Wanderers in England, a move that would come to define Jota’s career. At Wolves, he thrived, scoring prolifically and helping the team secure promotion to the Premier League. Wolves subsequently made his transfer permanent for €14 million.
Jota’s rise continued as he became an integral Premier League player and then moved to Liverpool in 2020, where he enjoyed considerable success and became a fan favorite. His journey, marked by an unexpected detour through Atlético Madrid without any official appearances, highlights a unique twist in a storied career that might have unfolded quite differently.
In recognition of his connection to both Atlético Madrid and Porto, a tribute is planned by FC Porto during a friendly match against Atlético Madrid, honoring the legacy of a player who, despite challenges and detours, made a lasting impact on European football before his premature passing.
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