Neves inherits Jota’s number 21 in Portugal: Tribute and motivation for the World Cup.

The number 21, belonging to Diogo Jota, will be inherited by his friend and teammate, Rúben Neves, as announced by the national team coach, Robert Martínez. Martínez made this announcement when presenting Portugal’s first call-up after the death of Jota, who lost his life along with his brother André Silva in a traffic accident in Spain on July 3rd.

This is the first training camp without Diogo Jota. We know what Diogo meant to each of us, the impact he had on our lives. We want to honor his memory every day.

Robert Martínez

The coach highlighted the importance of keeping Jota’s legacy alive, who will be a source of motivation for the team in the pursuit of their goals.

• “He will be with us and will be another force to achieve our goals. Diogo Jota’s example is a light for us. We will carry his spirit in our hearts. We will win for Diogo, for his brother André, and as always, for all the Portuguese people”.

The coach also revealed that the team will have an additional player in the squad, representing Diogo.

Neves, who was one of Jota’s closest friends, was one of the pallbearers at his funeral.

I think Diogo’s absence is a sign of unity, motivation and responsibility, because Diogo wanted to win the World Cup. So we are here to fight and do everything possible to achieve our dream. I can also inform that Diogo Jota’s shirt number, 21, now goes to Rúben Neves, and thus remains with all of us on the field.

Robert Martínez

After Jota’s death, Neves shared a heartfelt message on Instagram.

Message from Rúben Neves in tribute to Diogo Jota

Portugal will begin its path towards qualification for next year’s World Cup in North America with matches against Armenia and Hungary on September 6 and 9, respectively. In Martínez’s call-up, Cristiano Ronaldo and his new teammate at Al Nassr, João Félix, are included.