The Portugal national team’s first training camp after the tragic passing of Diogo Jota was filled with emotion, unity, and remembrance. Al-Hilal midfielder Rúben Neves revealed a powerful gesture that touched the entire nation: a Diogo Jota Tattoo on his left leg, showing the two teammates embracing with the words, “You will never be forgotten. We are 23+1.” More than just ink on skin, this tribute has become a symbol of resilience and togetherness for Portugal as they prepare for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
For Rúben Neves, the Diogo Jota Tattoo is more than a tribute; it represents years of shared memories, victories, and sacrifices. The two Portuguese stars played 164 matches together, beginning at Porto, shining during unforgettable years at Wolves, and continuing side by side in the Portuguese national team. Neves explained that Jota was not only a teammate but a brother in football. His heartfelt gesture reminded the nation that bonds forged on the pitch often extend far beyond it.
The tattoo image of Neves hugging Jota reflects the unbreakable spirit they shared. Accompanied by the message “We are 23+1”, it symbolizes that Jota will always remain a part of the national squad. Fans across Portugal praised Neves’ action, calling it one of the most touching tributes in modern football.
Portugal Comes Together to Remember
The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) organized a ceremony to honor both Diogo Jota and former Porto captain Jorge Costa, who also passed away recently. Portugal’s President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, Prime Minister Luís Montenegro, and sporting legends including Cristiano Ronaldo and João Félix attended the emotional event.
During the tribute, Neves was chosen to represent the team in delivering a speech, where he underlined that Jota’s spirit would always remain present. He added that whether in the locker room, on the team bus, or on the pitch, Jota will continue to live in their hearts. The Diogo Jota Tattoo he carries is a visual reminder of this vow.
To ensure Jota’s memory endures during every match, Neves has taken on his No. 21 jersey for Portugal. The decision, supported by head coach Roberto Martínez, highlights the midfielder’s close relationship with Jota. At Liverpool, Jota’s iconic No. 20 shirt has already been retired, another gesture of respect for the forward’s impact.
This symbolic act guarantees that Jota’s presence will remain in every game as Portugal looks ahead to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. For Neves, wearing the shirt and carrying the Diogo Jota Tattoo are ways of ensuring that his friend never leaves the field.
The Portuguese Football Federation will open a Plaza of Heroes at its headquarters, a permanent space to honor legends of the game. Both Jota and Jorge Costa will be posthumously awarded the Medal of Sporting Merit and recognized as Commanders of the Order of Merit.
At the ceremony, Jota’s widow, Rute Cardoso, who married him just 11 days before his passing, unveiled a bronze-framed Portugal jersey with his name and No. 21. The touching moment was accompanied by tears, applause, and heartfelt messages from teammates and officials alike.
Neves’ Diogo Jota Tattoo quickly went viral on social media, further amplifying the national sense of loss and pride. It has since become a visual symbol of how Portuguese football honors those who shaped its history, even in moments of deep sorrow.
An Eternal Legacy of Diogo Jota
Although gone too soon, Diogo Jota’s legacy remains eternal. With 49 international appearances, 14 goals, and two UEFA Nations League titles, his contribution to Portuguese football was immense. Beyond the statistics, however, his personality, professionalism, and love for the game left a lasting impact on teammates and fans.
Thanks to Rúben Neves’ tattoo tribute, Jota’s memory now has both a physical and spiritual presence in Portuguese football. The inked image, combined with the symbolic 23+1 squad number, ensures that he will forever remain part of the team’s journey. As Portugal prepares for World Cup qualifiers, every player carries Jota in their hearts, but for Neves, the Diogo Jota Tattoo ensures he will never step onto the pitch alone.
The unveiling of the Diogo Jota Tattoo by Rúben Neves is more than a personal act of remembrance; it is a symbol of national unity, resilience, and respect. Portugal’s players, officials, and fans have demonstrated that even in tragedy, football can bring people together. Jota’s story will inspire generations, and with Neves’ gesture, his presence remains forever etched in Portuguese football history.
FAQs :
1. What is the Diogo Jota Tattoo?
The Diogo Jota Tattoo is a tribute by Portugal midfielder Rúben Neves, featuring an image of him embracing the late forward Diogo Jota, accompanied by the phrase “You will never be forgotten. We are 23+1.” It is inked on Neves’ left calf.
2. Why did Rúben Neves get the Diogo Jota Tattoo?
Neves shared a close friendship with Jota, playing together at Porto, Wolves, and for Portugal. The tattoo symbolizes their bond and ensures that Jota’s memory lives on in the squad.
3. What does “We are 23+1” mean on the tattoo?
The phrase refers to Portugal’s national team squad of 23 players, with Jota’s spot left symbolically vacant, showing that he is still part of the team in spirit.
4. Will Rúben Neves wear Jota’s jersey number?
Yes, Neves has been given the No. 21 jersey, previously worn by Diogo Jota, as a way to honor him during matches and keep his legacy alive on the field.