Roberto Martinez pays tribute to Diogo Jota after announcing Portugal’s World Cup squad
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Roberto Martinez paid tribute to Diogo Jota as he announced Portugal’s World Cup squad. Image Credits: Imago ImagesRoberto Martínez has paid an emotional tribute to Diogo Jota as he named his Portugal squad for the World Cup on Tuesday.Jota was a regular fixture for the national team and had dreamed of featuring at the 2026 tournament after injury ruled him out of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.The late Liverpool forward was expected to be part of Martínez’s plans for the competition, with the Portugal boss saying the squad will carry Jota’s spirit as they aim to win their first World Cup title.“He is our strength and our joy,” Martinez said.
“Losing Diogo was an unforgettable and incredibly painful moment, but the following day was a responsibility for all of us to fight for Diogo’s dream.“And to always follow his example in our national team. Diogo Jota’s spirit, his strength, and his example are the driving force, and they always will be.”Last week, Liverpool unveiled images of a new permanent sculpture to be installed outside Anfield in memory of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, who died together in a car crash in Spain last year.A Liverpool statement said: “Titled ‘Forever 20,’ it celebrates their lives, their bond, and the love and respect felt by family, teammates and supporters across the world.“At its centre is a flowing heart sculpture, in acknowledgement of Diogo’s iconic goal celebration, while viewed from different angles it also reveals the numbers 20 and 30, which adorned the back of the brothers’ playing shirts.”Diogo Jota joined Liverpool in a £45m move from Wolverhampton Wanderers in September 2020 after helping Nuno Espírito Santo’s side secure promotion to the Premier League.Known for his sharp finishing and composure in front of goal, he became a decisive player under both Jurgen Klopp and Arne Slot.
He went on to score 44 goals in 131 appearances during his three seasons at Molineux.Jota is immortalised as Liverpool Football Club’s No. 2026 FIFA World Cup Diogo Jota Portugal Roberto Martínez