Luis Diaz Under Fire After Skipping Diogo Jota’s Funeral for Colombia Event Appearance

Liverpool star Luis Diaz sparks backlash after missing emotional farewell to Diogo Jota in Portugal

In the wake of Diogo Jota’s tragic passing, the Liverpool family gathered in Gondomar, Portugal, for a final farewell. It was an emotional, solemn day—one marked by tears, tributes, and deep sorrow as friends, family, and team-mates came together to honour a life lost far too soon. But one notable absence caught the eye of fans and pundits alike: Luis Diaz.

The Colombian international, known for his electrifying pace and joyful playing style, has found himself at the centre of a growing controversy after appearing at a commercial event in Colombia instead of attending the funeral of his close friend and Liverpool teammate. Videos showing Diaz laughing and dancing with social media influencers have surfaced online, sparking a wave of criticism and raising uncomfortable questions about priorities, loyalty, and timing.

The heartbreak in Portugal

Diogo Jota’s death shook the football world. The 28-year-old Portuguese forward and his brother Andre Silva were tragically killed in a car accident on July 3, a loss that reverberated far beyond the boundaries of the sport. Tributes poured in from across the globe, with fans, players, and clubs all expressing their sorrow and support for the grieving family.

At the funeral in Gondomar, the sense of loss was palpable. Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk, new head coach Arne Slot, and several members of the first-team squad made the journey to pay their respects. It wasn’t just a show of unity—it was a deeply human moment, an opportunity to say goodbye to someone who had become part of their footballing lives.

But Luis Diaz wasn’t there.

Luis Diaz and the growing backlash

Diogo Jota Luis Diaz shirt Liverpool

While the Liverpool squad gathered in Portugal, Diaz was thousands of miles away in Colombia, reportedly attending a commercial event tied to his sponsorship obligations. Clips circulated online—videos of Diaz dancing, smiling, and interacting with local influencers. In isolation, it might have seemed like just another appearance. But in the context of Jota’s funeral, the images felt jarring.

Even in his native Colombia, reaction has been mixed at best. Supporters who had long admired Diaz’s loyalty and humility began to question his absence, especially given the close bond he appeared to share with Jota. After all, it was Jota who had lifted a Diaz jersey during a goal celebration in solidarity when Diaz’s father was kidnapped last year—a moment that symbolised team spirit and friendship in the face of adversity.

Now, in Jota’s hour of need, Diaz wasn’t there. And people noticed.

Diaz’s emotional tribute to Jota

To his credit, Diaz did not remain silent. Upon learning of Jota’s passing, the 27-year-old posted a heartfelt tribute on social media that captured just how much his teammate meant to him.

“I have no words… It hurts in my soul. Not just for what he was on the pitch, but for the person he was off of it. There are gestures that one never forgets, and Diogo had one with me that will accompany me all my life. My hug goes out to Rute, his three children and his family. Rest in peace, Diogo and Andre.”

It was a beautiful message. But for some, it didn’t feel like enough—not when juxtaposed with footage of Diaz enjoying himself at an event while others were grieving.

Balancing obligations and emotion

Of course, footballers are people too, often caught between personal emotions and professional responsibilities. In Diaz’s case, there are reports that his attendance at the event in Colombia had been scheduled long before Jota’s death. There’s also the possibility that commercial contracts made cancellation difficult. We don’t know all the details—and in moments like this, judgment can be harsh.

But optics matter. And for a player who was seemingly so emotionally impacted by Jota’s loss, fans expected his presence at the funeral. For many, that absence felt like a missed opportunity to stand with the Liverpool family.

Liverpool remain silent—for now

As of now, Liverpool FC have not issued a formal statement regarding Diaz’s absence, nor have they commented on the circulating videos. The club’s focus has remained squarely on supporting Jota’s family and honouring his memory.

Behind closed doors, however, it is almost certain that conversations are being had. Clubs like Liverpool value unity and image, and public perception matters. Whether or not Diaz’s commercial appearance was justifiable, the fallout may linger.

A difficult summer for Liverpool

Jota’s death has cast a shadow over what was already shaping up to be a summer of transition for Liverpool. With Jurgen Klopp stepping down, and Arne Slot taking the reins, a new chapter is beginning. But it’s a chapter that has started in mourning.

Slot’s decision to attend the funeral in person, alongside van Dijk and other senior figures, was not just a gesture—it was a message. A reminder that, at its heart, football is a human game. And when one of your own falls, you show up.

Luis Diaz’s absence, unfortunately, sent the opposite message—regardless of the reasons behind it.

Moving forward: What now for Diaz?

Whether the criticism dies down or not will likely depend on Diaz’s response moving forward. A more direct explanation, or a deeper tribute, may help soften public perception. But the reality is, reputations are fragile. One moment of celebration in the wrong context can tarnish months—or years—of goodwill.

Diaz remains a key player for Liverpool. On the pitch, his pace, skill, and flair are irreplaceable. But fans are looking for more than just technical brilliance—they want to see that same passion and commitment off the field.

In the weeks ahead, as Liverpool regroup for the new season, Diaz will have to navigate not just tactical instructions from a new manager, but also the emotional aftermath of this controversy. The hope is that he finds the right balance—both as a player and as a man.

Because in moments of loss, how you show up says just as much as how you play.