Ruben Neves responds with statement after Portuguese publication question his relationship with Diogo Jota’s wife after ex-Liverpool star’s death

Al-Hilal and Portugal star Ruben Neves has issued a statement in response to an insinuation about his relationship with ex-Liverpool star Diogo Jota's window Rute Cardoso. Cardoso was widowed earlier this summer when Jota passed away in a motor accident alongside his brother Andre Silva in Spain.

Neves, one of Diogo Jota's closest friends, has taken it upon himself to act as a pillar of support for his friend's widow and family, at large. An inappropriate relationship was insinuated by Portuguese outlet TV Guia, leading the midfielder to express his displeasure.

"I always believe in the good in people, I've been warned not to do so, I've been wrong, and I never wish harm on anyone. The person who put this photo on the magazine cover doesn't deserve to be happy, just as their choice wasn't a happy one. My wife, Debora Lourenco, and I have been together for over 11 years, happy, with a family that makes me proud, and in 11 years we have never been involved in any controversy.

"We've done our best to help Rute and her family in the best way possible. The choice of this photo is as unfortunate as the person who chose it and the person who posted it. I respect that everyone has their own work, I respect that everyone wants to do their best, and I don't respect those who don't respect others", he said via GIVEMESPORT.

In their magazine released earlier this week, TV Guia posted a story of Neves' support for Rute Cardoso, titling it "Ruben Neves and Rute United After Death. How Diogo Jota's widow leans on her best friend". The cover photo for the piece, however, was the source of controversy as it featured Neves and Cardoso standing facing each other with their faces nearly touching.

Cardoso got married to former Liverpool star Jota just days before his unfortunate death, and the couple had three young children together. Neves has three children of his own with his wife Debora Lourenco, with whom he has been since 2014.

Ruben Neves flew down to Portugal from the USA, where he played in the FIFA Club World Cup this summer to be among the pallbearers at Diogo Jota's funeral. He also tattooed his left leg in honour of the former Wolves man and took his number 21 shirt for the Portuguese national team this month.

Premier League legend names Liverpool as favourites for title because of Diogo Jota

Chelsea legend John Terry has named Liverpool as his favourites for the Premier League title this season because of an interesting reason. The Reds have begun the season in fine form, winning all three of their games so far, including one against title rivals Arsenal.

Terry spoke with talkSPORT about his expectations for the 2025-26 season, and he pointed out that the Reds are likely to win the league. He stated that he thinks they are the league's strongest side, and that the loss of Jota would fuel them to dig deep and win the title

“I think it’s theirs to lose. They have a big motivation with the very sad loss of Diogo Jota as well, in the back of their minds. For that reason, I really hope Liverpool do it for that reason alone, to be honest.

I think they’re the strongest side. I think Man City have shown vulnerability again this season. I’m not sure Chelsea have enough experience in their squad to push them. And also, I don’t want to put pressure on the Chelsea squad as well. So, I think it’s Liverpool’s to lose, and like I said, I wish them well for it", he said via TBR Football.

Arne Slot's side have strengthened significantly this summer, breaking the Premier League's transfer record twice to sign Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak. Liverpool won the league in the 2024-25 season with Diogo Jota playing a key role in their triumph, and will hope to repeat the feat this season.