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Diogo Jota and younger brother, Andr Filipe
The funerals of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and younger brother, André Filipe Teixeira da Silva, have been scheduled for 10 a.m. on Saturday in Gondomar, a town near Porto in northern Portugal.
Initially, local priest Father José Manuel Macedo had stated the services would take place at 4 p.m. on Friday. However, the timing was later changed to Saturday morning due to minor paperwork delays related to repatriation, as the family remained in Spain as of Thursday evening.
A wake will be held at São Cosme Chapel, followed by a funeral Mass at Igreja Matriz de Gondomar, the town’s main Catholic church. Gondomar holds special meaning for Jota, who began his football journey at a local club there and is believed to have met his wife in the area.
It has not yet been confirmed whether the ceremonies will be private or open to the public.
The brothers’ tragic deaths in a road accident near Zamora, Spain, prompted an outpouring of tributes across the football community. Former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp, club icon Sir Kenny Dalglish, and current manager Arne Slot were among many who expressed their condolences.
Liverpool players also shared heartfelt messages in Jota’s memory. Alexis Mac Allister wrote on Instagram: “I can’t believe it. I will always remember your smiles, your anger, your intelligence, your companionship and everything that made you who you were. It hurts a lot, we will miss you. Rest in peace, dear Diogo.”
Dominik Szoboszlai added: “Words cannot describe how heartbroken and devastated we are. Your smile, your love for the game will never be forgotten. We will miss you so much, but you will stay with us forever, on and off the pitch. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Rest in peace, brother.”
As the football world mourns, Saturday’s service will offer a final opportunity to say goodbye to the beloved Portuguese international and his brother. (The Nation)