You’ll never walk alone: a player’s tribute to Diogo Jota and André Silva

Professional footballer and founder of Ballers in God, John Bostock, pays tribute to Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, who tragically died in a motorcar accident in Spain 

It is with deep sadness that I write this tribute following the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and his brother, André Silva. Although I didn’t have the opportunity to meet or play against Diogo or André, the news of the car crash that claimed both of their lives has been heartbreaking. Moments like this force all of us, especially those of us in the football world, to pause, reflect and truly feel the weight of life and loss.

Diogo was more than a top player. He was a star for Liverpool, admired not just for his ability on the pitch, but for the way he carried himself. His brother André was also pursuing his dream in football, playing for Penafiel in Portugal. Both were young, gifted and full of potential. Diogo had only recently got married and was a devoted father to three beautiful children. The pain of this loss is difficult to put into words.

Life is incredibly precious. And this tragedy reminds us just how fragile it is. One moment everything feels secure, familiar and full of promise. The next, everything can change. James 4:14 says: “What is your life? It is even a vapour, that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.” These moments confront us with a sobering truth: we are not in control, and our time here is never guaranteed.