Rafael Leao pays emotional tribute to Diogo Jota and outlines impact on Portugal team
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Liverpool IconLiverpool FC NewsFeaturesDiogo JotaRafael Leao has paid tribute to his former teammate, Diogo Jota, who tragically died in a car crash in Spain over the summer, with the Portugal star remembering his legacyAC Milan forward Rafael Leao.(Image: Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)AC Milan and Portugal star Rafael Leao has paid homage to Diogo Jota, whose memory continues to inspire the national team squad ahead of the World Cup.The Liverpool forward tragically lost his life over the summer, leaving those close to him devastated by the shocking news. His brother also passed away in the incident.The Portuguese international, who had only just secured the Premier League title at Anfield, was cherished by both his club and international colleagues.READ MORE: Champions League player's father claims his son could sign for Liverpool this summerREAD MORE: Man City 115 charges latest as '60-point deduction' could impact LiverpoolLeao disclosed that Jota was also an excellent listener and remarkably generous, while he also made the effort to visit him in Milan.
"Even if sometimes he was in his corner talking with his wife or kids."But he was a good teammate and always wanted to help everyone, even me sometimes. Sometimes I used to ask him for a few things, and he would also ask me for tickets for his family to come to AC Milan to watch some games."Jota's funeral in July was an incredibly moving occasion, with international colleagues Bruno Fernandes, Ruben Dias, Bernardo Silva, Ruben Neves, along with current and former Liverpool players, Porto president Andre Villas-Boas and Portugal manager Roberto Martinez all in attendance.(Image: Getty Images)Asked whether his passing would motivate Portugal to claim World Cup glory, Leao responded: "Every game we think about him.
Learn moreFrom $100LFC.comSee the dealLiverpool's home and away strips for the 2025/26 season are the first in their new partnership with adidas.Fans can order jerseys in the US at Fanatics.com or via the LFC Online Store in both the US and across the world.During pre-season, Leao delivered his own homage to Jota following his opening goal for Milan against Liverpool. The Portuguese forward formed the number 20 with his fingers.It was a restrained celebration from the winger, who was eager to honor the player.This campaign, the Liverpool squad has worn a "Forever 20" emblem — acknowledging Jota's retired shirt number — on their jerseys and stadium jackets throughout the season.The Portugal international became the first player in the Reds' history to have his number permanently retired following the tragedy.Liverpool FCDiogo Jota