In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves through the football world and beyond, the final will of Portuguese football sensation Diogo Jota has been uncovered, painting a picture of unwavering trust and profound love in his last moments. Just weeks after a devastating car crash claimed his life at the tender age of 28, details have emerged showing that Jota, in his final hours, ensured his entire multi-million-dollar estate would be transferred solely to his high school sweetheart and newlywed wife, Rute Cardoso. With full authority vested in her, Rute now holds the reins to distribute the assets among their three young children, free from any external interference. This bombshell decision, shrouded in emotion and secrecy until now, raises questions about family dynamics, legacy planning, and the pressures of fame. As fans mourn the loss of one of Liverpool’s brightest stars, this will adds a layer of intrigue to an already tragic story.

Diogo José Teixeira da Silva, better known as Diogo Jota, was born on December 4, 1996, in Massarelos, Porto, Portugal. From humble beginnings in a working-class family, Jota’s passion for football ignited early. He joined the youth academy of Gondomar at age nine, showcasing a natural talent for scoring goals and outmaneuvering defenders. His professional debut came in 2014 with Paços de Ferreira, where he quickly made a name for himself in the Primeira Liga. Jota’s blistering pace, clinical finishing, and versatility as a forward caught the eye of European scouts, leading to a move to Atlético Madrid in 2016. However, it was during a loan spell at Wolverhampton Wanderers in the English Championship that he truly blossomed, helping the team secure promotion to the Premier League.

Jota’s permanent transfer to Wolves in 2018 marked the beginning of his ascent to stardom. Under manager Nuno Espírito Santo, he formed a lethal partnership with Raúl Jiménez, contributing to Wolves’ impressive runs in domestic and European competitions. His performances earned him a £41 million move to Liverpool in September 2020, where he became an integral part of Jürgen Klopp’s squad. Known as the “super sub” for his game-changing cameos off the bench, Jota helped Liverpool win the Premier League, FA Cup, EFL Cup, and UEFA Champions League. Internationally, he represented Portugal, earning caps in the UEFA Nations League and major tournaments. By the time of his untimely death, Jota had amassed over 100 goals in his club career, solidifying his status as one of the most promising talents of his generation.

Beyond the pitch, Jota’s personal life was a beacon of stability amid the chaos of professional sports. He met Rute Cardoso during their high school years in Porto, and their relationship endured the trials of his rising fame. Rute, a 28-year-old from Portugal, stood by Jota through thick and thin, supporting his career moves across countries. The couple welcomed their first child, a son named Dinis, followed by two more children, with the youngest born just last year. Their family life was often shared glimpses on social media – idyllic vacations, family outings, and tender moments that humanized the football icon. On June 22, 2025, mere days before tragedy struck, Jota and Rute tied the knot in a private ceremony, fulfilling a long-held dream. Photos from the wedding depicted a joyful couple, unaware of the heartbreak looming ahead.

The fateful night of July 3, 2025, changed everything. Jota and his brother, João André Silva Moreira, were traveling in a Lamborghini through the province of Zamora, Spain, when disaster struck. According to Spanish police reports, the vehicle was believed to be speeding when a tire reportedly blew out, causing the car to veer off the road, crash, and burst into flames. Both brothers perished at the scene, leaving behind a trail of devastation. The accident occurred in the early hours, and initial investigations pointed to mechanical failure combined with high speed as contributing factors. Tributes poured in from across the globe: Liverpool FC issued a heartfelt statement, Portugal’s Prime Minister expressed condolences, and teammates like Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk shared emotional posts. The football community paused to remember a player whose energy and skill lit up stadiums.

In the midst of this grief, the disclosure of Jota’s last will has captivated public attention. Drafted and executed in his final moments – reportedly updated shortly after his wedding – the document stipulates that his entire estate, estimated between $12 million and $20 million (with some sources claiming up to £35 million including endorsements and investments), be transferred wholly to Rute Cardoso. This includes his salary from Liverpool, where he had two years left on a five-year deal worth approximately $9.94 million annually, as well as assets from endorsements with brands like Nike and Adidas. Real estate holdings in Portugal and England, luxury vehicles, and investment portfolios round out the fortune built over a decade of elite football.

What makes this will particularly explosive is the clause granting Rute absolute discretion in distributing the assets to their three children. No family members, advisors, or courts can intervene; it’s her decision alone on how and when the inheritance is allocated. Legal experts speculate this reflects Jota’s deep trust in Rute’s judgment, perhaps stemming from their long history together. “In his last breaths, Diogo wanted to ensure Rute’s security and autonomy,” a close family source anonymously revealed. “He knew the pressures of fame and didn’t want disputes tearing the family apart.” This setup avoids potential conflicts with extended family, prioritizing the nuclear unit he built with Rute.

Reactions have been mixed and intense. Fans on social media hail it as a romantic gesture, with comments like “True love till the end – Jota protected his queen!” Others question the implications for the children, wondering if such unchecked power could lead to future issues. Rute, who has remained largely private since the tragedy, issued a brief statement through representatives: “Diogo’s love guides us still. I will honor his wishes for our family’s future.” Liverpool FC has committed to paying out the remaining contract value to the family, providing a financial cushion amid the emotional turmoil.

This will underscores broader themes in celebrity estates. Footballers like Jota often face complex legacy planning due to young families and sudden wealth. Comparisons have been drawn to other stars, such as Diego Maradona, whose disputed inheritance led to years of litigation. Jota’s approach, by contrast, seems designed for harmony, entrusting everything to the woman who knew him best. It also highlights the vulnerabilities of athletes: high-risk lifestyles, from fast cars to intense schedules, that can end abruptly.

As the dust settles, Diogo Jota’s legacy endures not just in highlight reels but in this final act of devotion. His story serves as a poignant reminder of life’s fragility and the enduring power of love. Rute Cardoso now steps into an unenviable role, safeguarding the fortune for their children while navigating public scrutiny. In a world where football fortunes often spark drama, Jota’s will stands as a testament to simplicity and trust – a fitting end for a man who lived with passion on and off the field.