Chelsea's Enzo Maresca mourns Diogo Jota, hands Neto choice against Palmeiras
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has expressed his heartfelt sorrow over the tragic passing of Liverpool star Diogo Jota, extending his condolences and love to the player's family.
The 28-year-old and his brother, Andre, tragically died on Thursday when their vehicle veered off the motorway in Cernadilla, a municipality in the province of Zamora in northwestern Spain.
Jota, who joined the Reds from Wolves, played a vital role in Arne Slot’s Premier League-winning campaign last season, having also previously lifted the FA Cup, Community Shield, and twice the Carabao Cup during his time at Anfield.
Before speaking to the media ahead of Friday’s Club World Cup quarter-final clash with Palmeiras, the Italian manager shared a heartfelt message to the family of the Portuguese international.
"This is a very sad day. I struggle to find the words because it's very difficult. I think that you feel helpless in this kind of situation," Maresca told the media.
"The only thing I can say, you know, all my love to, you know, his family, the people that in this moment, it's a big tragedy for them."
Meanwhile, Maresca said it would be up to the grieving Pedro Neto to decide whether he would be available for the showdown against the Brazilians at Lincoln Financial Field, following the loss of his close international friend.
Neto missed Chelsea’s training session in Miami on Thursday morning, with Maresca revealing that the player is under no pressure to feature against Palmeiras.
The Italian tactician assured that Neto will receive full support and the freedom to decide whether to play.
"In terms of Pedro, it's very sad, probably more than sad, but we are also close to Pedro to support him in this moment," he continued.
"It's completely Pedro's decision. I had a chat this morning with Pedro. We support him. Any decision he will take is the correct one, and we are going to support him in any case.
"So, it doesn't matter if we'll be in the pitch or not tomorrow. We'll see how he's feeling tomorrow, but in any case, we're going to support him."
Liverpool had issued a statement following the tragic passing of their striker. "Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota," the statement read.
"The club have been informed the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre.
"Liverpool FC will be making no further comment at this time and request the privacy of Diogo and Andre’s family, friends, teammates and club staff is respected as they try to come to terms with an unimaginable loss. We will continue to provide them with our full support."
The club also revealed they will forever honour Jota by retiring his number 20 shirt, a heartfelt tribute ensuring that no player will wear it again, preserving his memory for generations to come.
Jota earned 49 caps for Portugal's senior national team and in June played a key role in their UEFA Nations League final win against Spain.
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