Soccer stars mourn Diogo Jota: Reactions from Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, Jude Bellingham, Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, Vinicius…

As news of the incident spread, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, Jude Bellingham, Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, Vinicius Jr., and other top names in world soccer posted emotional tributes.

Everyone is still in deep mourning after the tragic loss of Diogo Jota, the 28-year-old Liverpool and Portugal forward, who died alongside his younger brother Andre Silva in a car crash in Zamora, Spain, on July 3, 2025.

The crash occurred while the brothers were en route to Santander, where Jota was expected to catch a ferry back to England ahead of Liverpool’s pre-season training. The route had become necessary after Jota underwent recent surgery, preventing him from flying. It was meant to be a brief journey, but it ended in heartbreak.

As news of the incident spread, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, Jude Bellingham, Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, Vinicius Jr., and other top names in world soccer posted emotional tributes—each revealing just how much Jota’s life and presence resonated across generations, clubs, and rivalries.

Outpouring of emotion from soccer royalty

The initial tribute from Cristiano Ronaldo, his Portugal teammate, included the now widely shared four-word expression of grief: “It doesn’t make sense.” But Ronaldo wasn’t alone. Reactions from soccer’s brightest stars soon followed, each unique yet united in sorrow, including Lionel Messi.

Kylian Mbappe, Real Madrid:

“Deepest condolences, support, and thoughts are with those involved, their family and loved ones. Rest in peace Diogo & Andre.”

Jude Bellingham, Real Madrid:

“Heartbreaking news. Rest in peace Andre and Diogo. Sending love and strength to the family.”

Vinicius Jr., Real Madrid:

“Rest in peace Diogo and his brother Andre Silva! Much strength to the whole family!!”

Erling Haaland, Manchester City:

“RIP, Diogo, way too early.” Accompanied by a dove and praying hands emoji, Haaland’s post included a black-and-white image of Jota, a player he faced in several Liverpool vs. Manchester City battles.

Lamine Yamal, Barcelona:

The teenage prodigy shared a broken heart and a clenched fist emoji over an image of Jota posted by 433, showing the global reach of Jota’s influence—even among players he never met.

Robert Lewandowski, Barcelona:

“RIP,” he wrote simply but powerfully, adding his name to the growing wave of tributes from current and former greats.

Jota was more than a player. He was a fan favorite, celebrated with chants like “Better than Figo, don’t you know!” at Anfield. His joyful spirit, humility, and connection to fans made him special.