In a deeply evocative gesture of friendship and remembrance, Portugal and Al-Hilal midfielder Rúben Neves has immortalised his bond with the late Diogo Jota through a new tattoo.
Jota, who tragically lost his life in a car accident in July alongside his brother André Silva, had forged a close connection with Neves both at Wolverhampton Wanderers and on the Portugal national team. 28-year-old Neves was also a pallbearer at the late forward’s funeral.
Their camaraderie, born on the training ground, has now been etched in ink as a lasting legacy.
Neves unveiled the tattoo on social media via the Portuguese national team, alongside the message: “You’ll never be forgotten. The true meaning of being 23+1.”
The tattoo accompanies other heartfelt tributes. National team coach Roberto Martínez announced that Jota’s familiar number 21 shirt would be passed on to Neves, ensuring that his presence endures on the pitch.
“In this new journey to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, the number of players is 23 + 1, which is Diogo.
I think Diogo’s absence is a sign of unity, motivation, and responsibility, because Diogo wanted to win the World Cup. So we’re here to fight and do everything we can to achieve our dream. I can also report that Diogo Jota’s jersey number, 21, is now being passed on to Ruben Neves, and so it remains with all of us on the pitch.”
In the weeks following Jota’s death, the emotional weight of loss was laid bare during a Club World Cup match, where Neves, visibly overcome with emotion, joined teammate João Cancelo in tears during a poignant moment of silence before kick-off.
This tattoo is more than body art, it is a testament to a friendship cut tragically short, yet forever honoured. Through this intimate symbol, Neves lets fans and teammates alike know — that bond, built on shared dreams will never fade.
