Portugal midfielder Ruben Neves has revealed a new tattoo on the calf of his left leg in honour of his late countryman and former Liverpool forward Diogo Jota. The emotional tattoo was first revealed in a video posted from the official Instagram handle of the Portugal national team 2 days ago.
It’s been two months, but no one is really able to digest or get over Diogo Jota’s sudden and tragic death. The 28-year-old died in a horrific car accident along with his brother Andre Silva while Jota was driving his Lamborghini in Cernadilla, Spain. The footballing world still mourns the former Liverpool star’s death.
From his national and club teammates to players from different clubs and nationalities, everyone has paid their due tribute to Diogo Jota. In the Premier league, especially, players have been replicating Jota’s famous FIFA video game celebration after scoring for their teams.
Ruben Neves, who is currently on international duty with Portugal for their upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers, paid a unique tribute to Diogo Jota. Neves and Jota were very close friends from their early days, sharing the dressing room in not just the national team but also during their time together at FC Porto and Wolves.
Ruben Neves was heavily affected by Jota’s passing and was also among the pallbearers during the latter’s funeral ceremony in Portugal 2 months ago. While Jota forever lives in Neves’ memory, the Al Hilal midfielder has also ensured that his late best friend remains with him in his physical body as well.
Ruben Neves “More than friends, we're family” ♥️ pic.twitter.com/SnIAYtTAXU
— Anything Liverpool (@AnythingLFC_) September 3, 2025
In the video released by the Portugal national team, Ruben Neves’ calf can be seen covered by a new tattoo in which he can be seen hugging Diogo Jota, whose shirt number 21 can be seen clearly. Neves would have definitely gone through tons of emotions while getting the tattoo done in Jota’s remembrance.
Fans showered plenty of love to Ruben Neves for his incredible gesture. Fans from Colombia, Argentina and Chile etc, also expressed that the best tribute to Diogo Jota will be made next year if and when Portugal wins the FIFA World Cup next year.
Portuguese FA honours Diogo Jota and Jorge Costa in an official ceremony with the National team
On Tuesday evening, the entire 23-man Portugal squad had gathered together for a ceremony to honour Diogo Jota and former FC Porto captain Jorge Costa, who had passed away exactly a month after Jota through a cardiac arrest.
The Portuguese FA also unveiled Bronze made jersey with Diogo Jota’s name engraved during the ceremony, which also had Jota’s wife and parents, who were presented with special medals. Pedro Proenca, FPF President, also delivered a statement on behalf of the federation during the ceremony.
“As a century-old institution, the Portuguese Football Federation lives by its history. It has an obligation to honor those who built it. Men like Diogo Jota and Jorge Costa, who loved football. Who loved their country. Who loved their national team. Men who defended, with courage and dedication, the colours of our flag.” – Pedro Proenca said.
Ruben Neves then assured that the National team will do everything to keep Diogo Jota with the team and that his legacy will live on forever. “I and the entire national team team will do everything we can to keep Diogo here with us, on our team. Thank you, Jorge, and Diogo. Forever in our hearts.” – Neves said.
Before his passing, Diogo Jota scored 14 goals from 49 senior appearances for Portugal. He was also a part of the team that won the Nations league twice, first in 2019 and the second one earlier in the summer.
