Liverpool striker, Diogo Jota, recently revealed a message he received from his former manager, Jurgen Klopp. This came after what would have been a special goal for Portugal in their Euro 2024 opener against the Czech Republic on Tuesday. Despite being ruled out for offside, the goal held significant personal meaning for Jota.
Jota believed he had secured a late victory with his header. In celebration, he grabbed the ball and tucked it under his shirt while sucking his thumb - an act that revealed to the world that his partner, Rute Cardoso, is expecting their third child.
The aftermath of a chalked-off goal
Although the goal was chalked off due to an offside ruling, Portugal still managed to secure a 2-1 win over Czechia. Following this victory, Jota received congratulations from Klopp.
During a press conference ahead of Portugal match with Turkiye this weekend, Jota disclosed that Klopp had reached out to him post-match. He later announced via Instagram that they are expecting their third child - another girl joining two boys - due in November.
Liverpool striker, Diogo Jota, said:
“By chance he sent a message after the first game. He is a coach who doesn’t miss anything, he knows the moments when he should talk to the players.
“It was a word of support for my goal being disallowed and having a special meaning for me. But then we won the three points, that was the most important thing.”
Klopp has left a big legacy on his players
Klopp's gesture speaks volumes about his quality as not just a manager but also as an individual who cares deeply about those around him. His decision to congratulate Jota upon hearing news of his wife’s pregnancy is no surprise given his track record of maintaining close relationships with former players.
The 57-year-old has always shown it was more than just work at Liverpool; he genuinely cared about those who played under him even after they left Anfield. Now living life as an ardent supporter himself since returning to Germany for their opening Euro 2024 match against Scotland last Friday.
Portugal are strong contenders for Euros
Jota, who impressed as a substitute in the opener, could potentially start Portugal’s second game of Group F. Their opponents, Turkiye, are level on points having beaten Georgia 3-1.
Portugal's manager Roberto Martinez had fielded Rafael Leao and Bernardo Silva either side of Cristiano Ronaldo against Czechia. However, there is a lingering sense that the team might fare better without building around Ronaldo who is now 39 years old.
While Jota's 'goal' may not have counted on the scoreboard, it certainly scored high in terms of personal significance and emotional resonance. As Portugal moves forward in Euro 2024 and Jota prepares to welcome his third child later this year - one thing remains clear: football is more than just a game; it's about relationships formed both on and off the pitch.
