Neves is angered after being pictured alongside Jota’s wife by the media.

Over the past period, Neves has been supporting Rute Cardoso, Jota’s wife, sharing in the family’s grief following the loss of their friend. However, recently, Portuguese magazine TV Guia sparked public outrage by publishing an article titled: “After the death, Diogo Jota’s wife leans on her closest friend.”

The controversy didn’t lie in the article’s content, but in the cover photo. The image was manipulated to make it appear as though Neves and Cardoso were sharing an intimate moment, easily misinterpreted as a kiss.

Neves immediately expressed his outrage. On social media, the 27-year-old midfielder shared a statement:

“The person who chose this photo does not deserve to be happy. My wife, Deborah Lourenco, and I have been together for over 11 years, building a family I am very proud of. We have always tried to support Rute’s family during this tremendous loss. Deliberately using a misleading photo is disrespectful to both me and the deceased.”

Neves emphasized that he does not oppose media coverage of his friendship with Jota’s family, but he cannot accept images being distorted to create false impressions.

“I am proud of my wife, proud of my family, and we are also proud of Rute’s strength. We will always be there for her whenever she needs us,” Neves stated.

Jota passed away at the age of 28 alongside his brother Andre in a car accident in early July in Spain, leaving behind his wife Rute Cardoso and three young children. The couple had only married a few weeks prior.

Neves not only broke down at his best friend’s funeral but also got a special tattoo on his leg, commemorating the moment he hugged Jota as a tribute. He also took over Jota’s number 21 jersey for the Portuguese national team.