With all due respect, Acerbi sent his profound condolences to the family of Diogo Jota after the tragic accident of the Liverpool player and the immense support for the player’s first child, who moved many people !!
The world of football is deeply saddened by the tragic road accident that caused the death of the star of Liverpool and Portugal of Joa and the younger brother André Silva, on July 3, 2025. The devastating accident occurred in Zamora, Spain, when the Lamborghini on which they traveled suffered a burst of tires, came out of the way and caught fire. Jota, 28, had recently celebrated her wedding with her longtime companion Rute Cardoso, just 11 days earlier, making the loss even more excruciating for her family, friends and fans around the world. Among the numerous tributes from all over the world, Inter Francesco Acerbi defender has distinguished himself as a figure of compassion, offering not only feeling condolences, but also a touching gesture of economic support to Jota’s eldest son, leaving the football community deeply moved.
The news of Jota’s premature death has shocked the whole world of sport, with numerous tributes by teammates, rivals and fans. Jota, known for his electrifying performances on the pitch, had collected 182 appearances with Liverpool, scoring 65 goals and playing a fundamental role in the triumph in the Premier League in the 2024-25 season. His contribution to the Portuguese national team was equally significant, with 49 appearances and 14 goals, including the victories in the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and 2025. In addition to his sporting successes, Jota was celebrated for his contagious joy and humility, a quality that made him dear to all those who knew him. The loss of Jota and his brother André, FC Penafiel player, left an indelible void in the football community. Acerbi, an Italian defender of great experience and a respected figure in European football, was among the many who express his pain. In a declaration issued through the official Inter channels, Acerbi expressed its profound sadness, reflecting on the short moments shared with Jota during international matches. The two had faced themselves on the field during Italy’s games against Portugal, and Acerbi recalled Jota’s tireless energy and sportiness. “It’s hard to find words for such a tragedy,” said Acerbi. “Diogo was not only a phenomenal player, but a person who brought light to all those who surround him. My heart is aimed at his wife, Rute, their three children and the whole family”. His message found echo in the fans, who appreciated the sincerity and respect he showed for a rival who became a friend.
What has distinguished Acerbi’s response, however, was his extraordinary act of kindness. Learning that Jota left three young children, Acerbi announced a personal donation to support the education and the future of the eldest son. Although the exact amount was not made known, sources close to the player described the contribution as substantial, aimed at guaranteeing long -term stability to the child during this unimaginable loss. This gesture has aroused wide admiration, with fans and experts who praised Acerbi altruism. The social media platforms have been flooded with messages of praise for the Italian defender, with a Liverpool fan who wrote on X: “The donation of Acerbi shows the true spirit of football. It is more than a simple game: it is a question of humanity”.
The football community tightened around Jota’s family following the tragedy. The Liverpool Football Club, of which Jota was a beloved figure, opened books of physical and digital condolences to Anfield, allowing the fans to share their memories and support. Tributes rained by players like Cristiano Ronaldo, who wrote: “It makes no sense. A little while ago we were together in the national team, a little while ago you married you. To your family, your wife and children, send my condolences and wish them all the strength of the world”. Also clubs of the whole Premier League, including Manchester City, Tottenham and Arsenal, expressed their condolences, while a minute of silence was observed before the Portugal match against Spain, valid for the women’s European Championships.
In Portugal, the hometown of Jota, Gondomar, organized a funeral vigil and a funeral in honor of the brothers, in which personalities such as Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro and the agent of Jota, Jorge Mendes should participate. The Portuguese Football Federation described Jota as “an extraordinary person, respected by all teammates and opponents”, committing himself to honor his inheritance. In the meantime, Liverpool has postponed pre-championship training and an anfield vigil has attracted thousands of people, including prominent characters such as deputy prime minister Angela Rayner and Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher.
Acerbi’s gesture, however, touched a unique rope. His decision to support Jota’s son reflects the solidarity values that define football in its best form. While the investigations on the accident continue, with the Spanish authorities who examine the circumstances of the pneumatic outbreak, the attention remains on the celebration of Jota’s life and legacy. For many, Acerbi’s gesture of compassion serves to remember that, even in the face of a profound loss, the football community can join to offer hope and support to those who have remained.
