Portugal Coach: The Memory of Diogo Jota is a Source of Motivation Before the World Cup Qualifiers

Portugal's national football team coach, Spanish Roberto Martinez, confirmed today, Friday, that the memory of the late player Diogo Jota represents a "source of unity, motivation, and responsibility" for the players, just before Portugal's journey begins in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

In a press conference to announce the squad that will face Armenia and Hungary on September 6 and 9, Martinez said: "This is our first match without Diogo Jota. We want to honor his memory every day," noting that the number 21 that Jota wore will now be carried by midfielder Ruben Neves.

Jota (28 years old) tragically passed away in a horrific car accident last July, alongside his younger brother Andre Silva (25 years old), a player in the Portuguese second division, in the town of Cernadia near the Spanish border.

The accident sparked a wave of sadness in the sports community, while Portugal seeks to start the qualifiers with high morale, within Group 6, which also includes Ireland.

Star Cristiano Ronaldo, a player for Saudi club Al Nassr, continues to have a strong presence in the squad, holding the record for the most international matches (221) and goals (138), alongside his teammate Joao Felix. Meanwhile, Milan striker Rafael Leao is absent due to injury.