Meet Diogo Jota’s Parents: Joaquim Silva and Isabel Silva

Diogo José Teixeira da Silva, widely known as Diogo Jota, rose from humble beginnings to become one of Europe’s most admired footballers.

Born on December 4, 1996, in Massarelos, Porto, Portugal, and raised in the nearby town of Gondomar, Jota grew up in a working-class household where football was more than a pastime—it was a passion that united the family.

His parents, Joaquim Silva, a crane operator, and Isabel Silva, a factory worker, were central figures in his journey. Their tireless support, both emotional and financial, laid the foundation for Diogo’s rise in professional football.

The Silvas instilled in their sons the values of hard work, humility, and dedication—traits that would define Diogo‘s approach both on and off the pitch. His younger brother, André Silva, born April 28, 2000, also followed the football path, further cementing the family’s deep bond with the sport.

Jota began his footballing career at the age of nine with Gondomar SC before joining the youth ranks of Paços de Ferreira in 2013. He made his senior debut the following year, quickly capturing attention with his pace, intelligence, and clinical finishing. His education took a backseat as his professional ambitions came into sharp focus, though little is publicly known about his formal schooling.

After early success in Portugal, Jota’s career accelerated with moves to Atlético Madrid, FC Porto (on loan), Wolverhampton Wanderers, and ultimately Liverpool FC, where he cemented his place as a key figure under manager Jürgen Klopp. At Liverpool, he dazzled fans with his versatility and flair, earning multiple trophies and scoring over 50 goals for the club.

Off the pitch, Jota’s life was rooted in family. He shared a long-term relationship with Rute Cardoso, whom he began dating around 2017. The couple married in June 2025, just weeks before his untimely death.

Together, they had three children: sons, Dinis Silva (born February 2021) and Duarte Silva, and a daughter, Laura Silva (born September 2023). While Jota kept his personal life largely private, his devotion to his family was evident in the rare glimpses he shared with fans and the media.

Jota was raised in a predominantly Catholic region of Portugal, which may have influenced his quiet strength and grounded demeanour.

Joaquim Silva

Joaquim Silva, Diogo’s father, was a crane operator who often worked long hours and took on extra jobs to provide for his family. His dedication to his sons’ dreams was relentless, balancing demanding work schedules with the role of a supportive parent.

A passionate football fan himself, Joaquim saw potential in Diogo and André from an early age. When Diogo joined Gondomar SC at the age of nine, Joaquim became a familiar face on the sidelines, driving his sons to training sessions and matches, cheering them on, and offering guidance.

“We do everything for our children. There have been sacrifices upon sacrifices,” he once said, reflecting on the lengths he went to ensure Diogo could pursue his passion. His encouragement and practical support—covering club fees, equipment, and travel—laid the foundation for Diogo’s journey from a local pitch to the Premier League.

Isabel Silva

Isabel Silva, Diogo’s mother, was the emotional cornerstone of the Silva household. Working in a factory that produced auto parts, she faced long hours but never let her demanding job overshadow her commitment to her sons.

Isabel’s nurturing presence instilled a sense of humility and discipline in Diogo and André, qualities that have defined their character both on and off the pitch. Her love for football matched Joaquim’s, and together, they created a home where the sport was a shared passion.

Isabel’s sacrifices, like those of her husband, were driven by a desire to see her children succeed. Whether it was supporting Diogo’s early days at Gondomar SC or celebrating his milestones at clubs like Paços de Ferreira, Atlético Madrid, and Liverpool, Isabel remained a steady source of strength, helping Diogo stay grounded as his career soared.