This Saturday in Gondomar, near Porto, the world of Portuguese football gathered to pay a final tribute to Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, tragically died Thursday in a road accident. Many emblematic figures of the Seleção and the Liverpool club were present to accompany the two coffins, in a heavy atmosphere of sadness. However, an absence caught attention more than all the others: that of Cristiano Ronaldo.
The captain of the Portuguese selection, five -time golden ball and national football monument, was not seen during the ceremony. If CR7 had reacted publicly to the drama via a message on social networks, he did not make the trip to Gondomar. No testimony or image confirms his presence, and this absence questions, even disturbing.
Conversely, several international or old, wanted to make the trip to support their teammate. Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes, João Félix, Danilo Pereira or José Fonte were present to support the player's relatives. A strong and unanimous mobilization within the Portuguese wardrobe.
An “inexplicable” absence
Despite a busy schedule, some did not hesitate to cross the Atlantic. Ruben Neves, back from Orlando after a club World Cup match with Al-Hilal, wore the coffin of his friend. Joao Cancelo, also engaged in competition, was also able to join the church. Even coach Roberto Martinez made the trip.
According to the
MirrorCristiano Ronaldo would have voluntarily given up the displacement, fearing that his presence would attract media attention too much and divert the tribute paid to Jota. A choice that does not convince in Portugal. “He is the captain, many expected him to be there”said journalist Antonio Ribeiro Cristovao said
Daily Mail. Luis Cristovao, another voice of Portuguese sports journalism, even described this absence as“Inexplicable” and
” mistake “.
