Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has spoken his genuine grief about the tragic death of Liverpool -star Diogo Jota, who extends his participation and love to the player's family.
The 28-year-old and his brother, Andre, died tragically on Thursday when their vehicle ended from the highway in Cernadilla, a municipality in the province of Zamora in northwestern Spain.
Jota, who joined the Reds of Wolves, played a crucial role in the Premier League-winning campaign of Arne Slot last season, after he had previously also lifted the FA Cup, Community Shield and twice the Carabao Cup during his time at Anfield.
Before he spoke with the media before Friday's quarter-final collision in Friday's World Cup with Palmeiras, the Italian manager shared a sincere message to the family of the Portuguese international.
“This is a very sad day. I have trouble finding the words because it is very difficult. I think you feel helpless in situations like this,” Maresca told the media.
“The only thing I can say, you know, all my love for, you know, his family, the people who are currently a great tragedy for them.”
In the meantime, Maresca said that it would be up to the grieving Pedro Neto to decide whether he would be available for the confrontation against the Brazilians on Lincoln Financial Field, after the loss of his good international friend.
Neto missed the Chelsea training session in Miami on Thursday morning, with Maresca revealing that the player is not busy appearing against Palmeiras.
The Italian tactician assured that Neto will get full support and the freedom to decide whether they want to play.
“In terms of Pedro it is very sad, probably more than sad, but we are also close to Pedro to support him right now,” he went on.
“It is entirely Pedro's decision. I had a chat with Pedro this morning. We support him. Every decision he makes is the right one, and we will certainly support him.
“So it doesn't matter if we are in the field tomorrow or not. We will see how he feels tomorrow, but at least we will support him.”
Liverpool had issued a statement after the tragic death of their striker. “Liverpool Football Club was destroyed by the tragic death of Diogo Jota,” was the statement.
“The club has been informed that the 28-year-old died after a traffic accident in Spain together with his brother, Andre.
“Liverpool FC will not comment any further and the privacy of Diogo and Andre's family, friends, teammates and club staff are asked to be respected if they try to process an unimaginable loss. We will continue to offer them with our full support.”
The club also revealed that they will forever honor Jota by withdrawing his number 20 shirt, a sincere tribute to ensure that no player will wear it again and keep his memory for the coming generations.
Jota earned 49 caps for the Senior National Team of Portugal and played a key role in their UEFA Nations League Final win against Spain in June.
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Shina Oludareflash score News