Ruben Neves got a tattoo in honor of Diogo Jota: photos have appeared.
According to The Sun: Ruben Neves showcased an emotional tattoo honoring his late friend Diogo Jota.
The 28-year-old Portuguese joined the training sessions of the national team ahead of the World Cup qualifiers.
Ruben Neves led the tribute to Diogo Jota at the Portugal training campReuters X formerly Twitter / @selecaoportugalNeves revealed a new tattoo – a moment when he hugs Jota.
AFPJota's widow Rute Cardoso helped unveil a bronze jersey in his honor.
AFPCristiano Ronaldo and his teammates were present at the ceremony.
ReutersJota's family was presented with a special medal.
On July 3, Diogo Jota died in a car accident in Spain. He played for the national team 49 times, with his last match being the Nations League final against Spain on June 8. Portugal will face Armenia on Saturday and Hungary next Tuesday.
Tribute to Jota's Memory
This is the first gathering of the team after the tragic death of Jota. Neves, Cristiano Ronaldo, and other players paid tribute to their colleague.
Neves reminisced about his friendship with Jota, with whom he played at Wolverhampton and for the national team. He also helped carry his friend's coffin at the funeral.
His new tattoo, located on the back of his left leg, depicts the moment he embraced Jota, as well as the inscription 'Diogo J 21'. Neves plans to wear the same number 21 jersey that Jota used, continuing his legacy.
Manager Roberto Martinez noted: "The number 21 jersey will go to Ruben Neves, so this number will remain on the field and with all of us."
"He had a very close relationship with Diogo, and he is the perfect one to represent him."
The team also participated in a special ceremony in honor of Jota, along with family and agent Jorge Mendes, the president, and the prime minister of Portugal. Ronaldo and his teammates wore suits to pay tribute to their friend. Jota's widow and his parents received a special medal.
Cardoso unveiled the framed bronze jersey of Jota number 21 on the outer wall of the training facility in Lisbon. Neves sat next to Cardoso and family during the tribute when Wolverhampton honored their former striker on August 16, and gave a touching speech in Jota's memory.
A part of his speech was transformed into an emotional video, where Neves reads his letter to Jota, with videos and photos of Jota representing the national team and laughing with teammates.
Neves said: "Everyone in the national team felt these words the same way, and, speaking on behalf of the group, I think they reflect our first meeting very well."
"We are more than friends, we are family."
Neves reads a beautiful letter to his dear friendX formerly Twitter / @selecaoportugal
The video ends with the phrase "nothing can separate us."
The tragedy surrounding Jota left a deep mark on the squad and fans. The tribute to the footballer was a testament to the team's closeness and their commitment to a shared history, which will likely further strengthen the team's spirit during the World Cup qualifiers. Moving forward, it is important for the team to keep Jota's memory alive by upholding his principles and continuing the fight on the football field.
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