When Luis Diaz woke up to the news of Diogo Jota’s death, his world shifted in an instant.

The forward had never expected to face that kind of heartbreak, especially not over someone who played such an important role in his life on and off the pitch.

The tragedy sent shockwaves through Liverpool’s dressing room, but for Diaz, it felt personal.

Liverpool news and transfers LIVE: Diogo Jota tributes, Luis Diaz message, pre-season plans	'I broke down in tears' - Luis Diaz pays emotional tribute to Liverpool team-mate Diogo Jota	Luis Diaz broke down in tears after hearing of tragic death of 'great friend' Diogo Jota

Jota had been more than a teammate, he was a friend who welcomed him into the club when he needed it most.

ALSO READ: From factory roots to Football’s peak: The Diogo Jota story

Speaking to Win Sports in Colombia ahead of Jota’s funeral, Diaz opened up about the pain he felt when he learned what had happened.

“It’s very hard to find out about news like that,” Diaz said.

“The first thing you do when you wake up is look at the news, which is very sad because of what happened, honestly.”

He explained how Jota’s warmth helped him settle when he arrived in Liverpool, and how they quickly grew close.

“A team-mate, instrumental in my arrival in Liverpool because his family welcomed me, he welcomed me and we became great friends.” he said.

“We had a great, healthy rivalry and he was important.

Because the truth is they must be suffering a lot from this terrible news.” he continued.

“It was incredible when I woke up and saw the news.

When Diaz’s father was kidnapped in 2023, Jota scored against Nottingham Forest and held up Diaz’s shirt in solidarity.

That simple gesture stayed with Diaz, proof of the bond they shared.

For Diaz and many others, Jota’s absence leaves an ache that will never fully fade.