Why Cristiano Ronaldo didn't attend Diogo Jota's funeral

According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, Ronaldo spoke directly with Jota’s partner, Rute Cardoso, and was also in contact with Jota’s parents. The Al-Nassr star's decision to stay away was agreed to be the "best option" as his presence would have drawn "excessive attention" at a time when discretion was required. His gesture was meant to show empathy and solidarity without igniting a potential media frenzy that would have been "more harmful than beneficial."

While Ronaldo stayed away, many of Jota's closest colleagues in the Portugal national team were present to bid him farewell. Rúben Neves and João Cancelo made the long journey from the United States, arriving shortly after Al Hilal’s Club World Cup exit against Fluminense. Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva and Manchester United full-back Diogo Dalot, both of whom shared the pitch with Jota for Portugal, were also seen attending the service at the Igreja Matriz de Gondomar.

The Liverpool squad were also in attendance, although goalkeeper Alisson did not attend but sent a message to the family. He wrote on Instagram: "Usually, I post things that make sense, but today, nothing makes sense! Once again, an ocean separates me from “saying goodbye” to someone I love! But I know that I am well represented by my club mates! To you, my friend @rutecfcardoso14 , just know that you will never walk alone, we will be with you as soon as possible! In a moment like this, all we can do is bow down before the Sovereignty of God, and receive grace and help in this time! I’ll remember Diogo as a great friend, father and husband!"

Ronaldo's national team manager Roberto Martinez was at the ceremony to pay his respects and said Jota and his brother "will be with us forever." He added: "Today was a day that we showed we are a very, very large, but close family. We are Portugal, and it was essential for us, Andre Silva and Diogo Jota that we [were] together."