AC Milan and Portugal forward Rafael Leao has opened up about the profound impact of Diogo Jota's death on the national team, describing the late striker as a generous and supportive teammate. Jota, who won the Premier League with Liverpool, died in a car crash in Spain this summer, along with his brother.
In an interview with CBS, Leao recalled Jota's kindness: 'Everyone cared about him. He was a good teammate and always wanted to help everyone, even me. Sometimes I used to ask him for a few things and he would also ask me for tickets for his family to come to AC Milan to watch some games.'
Leao revealed that Jota's memory continues to inspire Portugal as they prepare for the World Cup. 'Every game we think about him. Always after a game he was there celebrating, and every game we think about him,' he said.
The Portugal squad has carried Jota's legacy throughout the season, with Liverpool retiring his number 20 shirt—a first in the club's history. Players have worn a 'Forever 20' emblem on their kits as a tribute.
Leao himself paid homage during a pre-season friendly against Liverpool, scoring and forming the number 20 with his fingers in a subdued celebration. Jota's funeral in July was attended by several Portugal teammates, including Bruno Fernandes, Ruben Dias, and Bernardo Silva, as well as Portugal manager Roberto Martinez.
