Rúben Neves will inherit Diogo Jota's No. 21 Portugal jersey as the squad moves forward after Jota's death alongside his brother André Silva in a car crash on July 3. The roster for the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign is being presented as 23 players plus Jota as an honorary '+1' to symbolize his continuing presence. The team intends to honor Jota's memory and carry his spirit in their pursuit of the World Cup. Neves was a close friend, served as a pallbearer at Jota's funeral, and posted a heartfelt Instagram tribute about keeping Jota with him.
He will be with us and be another force in achieving our goals. Diogo Jota's example is a light for us. We will carry his spirit in our hearts. We will win for Diogo, for his brother André, and as always, for all Portuguese people. "In this new journey to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, the number of players is 23 + 1, which is Diogo."
I think Diogo's absence is a sign of unity, motivation, and responsibility, because Diogo wanted to win the World Cup. So we're here to fight and do everything we can to achieve our dream. I can also report that Diogo Jota's jersey number, 21, is now being passed on to Ruben Neves, and so it remains with all of us on the pitch.
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