Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, were killed in the accident in Spain. Jota's brother was 25 and also a professional footballer. He played for Portuguese second-tier team Penafiel.

The crash took place in the Spanish province of Zamora and happened shortly after midnight local time on Thursday.

The devastating news comes just over a month after Jota lifted the Premier League title for Liverpool, where he made 182 appearances, alongside Nunez, having clinched the trophy in Arne Slot's first season in charge.

"There are no words of comfort for so much pain," Nunez posted on Instagram. "I will always remember you with your smile, as a good companion on and off the field.

"I send all my strength to his family. From where he is, I'm sure he will always be with you, especially his wife and three children.

"May he rest in peace. Diogo and Andre."

Jota also helped Portugal to its second Nations League title after beating Spain in the final on 8 June.

The forward was capped 49 times by Portugal since making his debut in November 2019, scoring 14 goals for his country.

"Friend, colleague and companion of a thousand battles. It's hard to understand how someone can leave so soon," Fernandes said via his Instagram story.

"May you and your brother find the peace you need to watch over your loved ones who lost you too soon and suddenly.

"My condolences to all your family."

Ruben Neves, who played alongside Jota at Wolves and for the national team, said: "They say we only lose people when we forget them. I will never forget you!"

Former Liverpool player and manager Kenny Dalglish said football is "not important" after news like this.

"Football is not important at this sad time," he said on X. "You feel helpless, knowing there's so little we can do to ease the pain for his wife of just two weeks, his three beautiful children.

"Thinking and praying for all their loved ones after the devastating loss of both Diogo and Andre. YNWA."

Liverpool team-mate Harvey Elliott, who played alongside Jota for five years, said: "Diogo, I can't believe you're gone. It's hard to put into words how much this hurts us.

"You were an incredible footballer, the kind that made a difference every single time you stepped on the field. You were humble, hardworking, kind, and always there for anyone that needed anything.

"I feel so lucky to have shared the pitch with you, shared memories and moments I'll carry with me forever. You'll always be part of this team, part of the Liverpool family. We will never, ever forget you.

"My heart goes out to your whole family. Love you, brother. Rest easy, Diogo and Andre. You'll Never Walk Alone."

Andre Silva joined Penafiel in July 2023, making 59 appearances in the Portuguese second division.

"The loss of two young lives linked to the world of football fills us with pain and consternation," the club said in a statement.

"At this difficult time, Futebol Clube Penafiel extends its most sincere condolences to the family, friends and all those who shared moments of life and passion for sport with Andre and Diogo."