Portuguese football is in deep mourning following the tragic death of Diogo Jota and his brother André, who were killed in a car accident in Spain. The funeral, held in Gondomar Jota hometown brought together family, friends, and a wide representation of the football community, with nearly the entire Liverpool squad present to bid farewell to the Portuguese brothers.

Luis Díaz Controversial Absence

One of the most notable absences was Colombian international Luis Díaz, Jota teammate at Liverpool and reportedly a close friend. Díaz did not travel to Portugal, as he was in Colombia fulfilling commitments with sponsors and influencers. The situation sparked strong criticism, especially after images emerged of the player dancing and smiling at promotional events during the same period.

Although Díaz shared an emotional message on social media mourning Jota’s death and recalling the support he received from him during the 2023 kidnapping of his father many fans deemed his absence inexcusable.

“I have no words... It hurts deeply. Not only because of who he was on the field, but because of the kind of person he was off it. There are gestures one never forgets, and Diogo made one that I’ll carry with me forever. My thoughts are with Rute, their three children, and the family. Rest in peace, Diogo and André,” Díaz wrote.

Still, to many supporters, his words rang hollow given his decision to skip such a crucial and emotional moment for Jota’s family and the club.

Cristiano Ronaldo: A Justified Absence?

Another major absence was Cristiano Ronaldo, who had shared the pitch with Jota on Portugal national team. According to The Mirror, Ronaldo chose not to attend the funeral to avoid creating a media spectacle that could overshadow the event.

“Ronaldo feared showing up in the small town of Gondomar and that his presence might draw attention away from the farewell to his teammate. He has been keeping a low profile lately, staying close to his family,” The Mirror reported.

Cristiano also posted a heartfelt message on social media:

“It doesn’t make sense. We were just together with the Seleção, and you had just gotten married. To your family and your children, I send my deepest condolences and wish them all the strength in the world. I know you’ll always be with them,” he wrote.

Are These Absences Justified?

While Ronaldo decision was largely accepted given his global stature, Luis Díaz actions continue to stir debate. Was it a lack of sensitivity or simply poor judgment? One thing is clear: the sadness surrounding Jota’s passing has been compounded by controversy.

Football says goodbye to one of its brightest talents with sorrow, and Diogo Jota will remain in the hearts of those who shared dreams, locker rooms, and matches with him.