Portugal’s Ruben Neves Unveils Tattoo Honoring Late Diogo Jota

Ruben Neves, the Portuguese midfielder and close friend of the late Diogo Jota, has honored Jota's memory with a heartfelt tattoo on his left calf depicting the two embracing, with Jota's iconic No. 21 shirt prominently featured. Following Jota's tragic death in a car accident in Spain, Neves has taken on the symbolic role of wearing Jota's No. 21 jersey for Portugal, a gesture endorsed by national team manager Roberto Martínez to keep Jota's spirit alive on the field. The Portugal national team, including Cristiano Ronaldo, paid solemn tribute to Jota during their first camp since his passing, participating in a ceremony attended by Portuguese leaders, Jota's family, and agent Jorge Mendes, which included unveiling a framed bronze No. 21 shirt at their training base. Neves, who carried Jota's coffin at the funeral, has expressed the enduring bond between them, describing their relationship as family-like and assuring that Jota remains with the team in spirit during matches and gatherings. The tattoo and the jersey number are symbols of unity, motivation, and responsibility for the team as they aim to fulfill Jota's dream of World Cup success. This outpouring of grief and respect highlights the profound impact Jota had on his teammates, the football world, and the Portuguese community.