“Diogo Jota Shares Heartfelt Note from Klopp After Emotional ‘Goal’ for Portugal”

Despite no longer being managed by Jürgen Klopp, Diogo Jota shared a touching message he received from the German coach after having a goal disallowed in a recent match for Portugal.

In Portugal’s Euro 2024 opener against the Czech Republic, Jota believed he had secured a late win with a header, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside. He had celebrated by tucking the ball under his shirt and sucking his thumb, revealing his partner, Rute Cardoso, is expecting their third child.

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Although the goal was disallowed, Portugal emerged victorious with a 2-1 win. After the match, Jota received a congratulatory message from his former Liverpool manager, Klopp.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of Portugal’s upcoming game against Turkey, Jota shared that Klopp had reached out following the victory over the Czech Republic.

“Coincidentally, he sent me a message after the first game,” Jota said, as reported by O Jogo. “He is a coach who notices everything and knows the right moments to communicate with players. It was a supportive message about my disallowed goal, which had special meaning for me. But ultimately, winning the three points was what mattered most.”

Jota later announced on Instagram that he and Cardoso are expecting their third child, a daughter, due in November.

Klopp’s continued contact with his former players highlights his deep connections beyond professional obligations. Now enjoying life as a fan, Klopp was present for Germany’s Euro 2024 opener against Scotland last Friday.

Jota, aiming for a starting position in Portugal’s second Group F game, impressed as a substitute in the match against Czechia. Turkey, their next opponents, also have three points after defeating Georgia 3-1.

In their previous game, manager Roberto Martinez chose Rafael Leao and Bernardo Silva to flank Cristiano Ronaldo. There is ongoing debate about the team’s reliance on the 39-year-old star.

Jota also commented on his fitness at the press conference: “I’ve been working hard since my last injury to be in top physical condition. I feel good and ready to start a game. I can’t promise to play the full 90 or 120 minutes, but I feel physically strong.”