“Cristiano Ronaldo’s message to Diogo Jota’s family before funeral revealed as reason for Portugal captain’s absence is clarified.”

Although Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo shared a heartfelt tribute to his late former teammate, he did not attend the funeral on Saturday. Instead, he sent a personal message to Diogo Jota’s family ahead of the service. Alongside the Liverpool squad, other footballers present to pay their respects included Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva, Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot, and fellow Portuguese players Joao Cancelo and Ruben Neves.

While many expected Ronaldo to be there, reports suggest he chose to remain on holiday in Majorca with his family. According to the Portuguese outlet Record, Ronaldo opted out of attending to avoid creating a “media circus” at the joint funeral of Diogo and Andre Silva.

Ronaldo instead reached out to Jota’s wife, Rute Cardoso, offering his support and assuring her that he would always be there for her and their three children.

Still, some criticized his absence. Sports journalist and commentator Luis Cristovao described it as “inexplicable,” adding that no explanation could justify the decision.

Following the tragic news of Jota’s death, Ronaldo had posted an emotional message on social media, expressing disbelief and grief. He wrote: “It doesn’t make sense. We were just together with the national team, and you had just gotten married. To your family, your wife, and your children, I send my condolences and wish them strength. I know you’ll always be with them. Rest in peace, Diogo and André. We will all miss you.”