Ruben Neves slams magazine after photo of himself with Diogo Jota’s widow | OneFootball

Al-Hilal star and Portugal international Ruben Neves has slammed a magazine for using a suggestive photo of himself and Diogo Jota’s wife, Rute Cardoso, on their front cover. Neves was close friends with Jota, and was present at his funeral, and at a memorial.

Jota, 28, and his brother Andre Silva, 26, tragically passed away in early July following a car accident in the Zamora region of Spain, as he drove from Porto to Santander. After losing control of the car late at night, the resulting crash killed both.

TV Guia release controversial cover

On their front cover, TVG printed an image of Neves and Cardoso on their front cover, which shows them appearing to be about to kiss. Accompanying the photo is the caption ‘Ruben Neves and Rute united after death. How Diogo Jota’s widow is being supported by his best friend.’

Image via TV Guia

Neves and Jota, who came through together at Porto, have been close for their entire careers, and the former was seen at the Club World Cup struggling to hold back the emotions shortly after finding out about Jota’s passing. He was also present at Jota’s funeral, and recently had a tattoo done to commemorate the former Atletico Madrid forward.

Neves: ‘The person who put that photo on the cover doesn’t deserve to be happy’

The Portugal midfielder commented on the post on Instagram with a strongly worded statement condemning the insinuation that Cardoso and himself might be having an affair.

Good afternoon. I always believe in the good in people. I’ve been warned against it, and I’ve been wrong before. I never wish anyone harm. The person who put this photo on the cover of the magazine does not deserve to be happy, just as the choice of the photo was not a good one.”

“My wife, Debora Lourenco, and I have been together for more than 11 years, happy, with a family that makes me proud, and in 11 years we have never been involved in any controversy. We have given our best to help Rute and his 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 job, I respect that everyone wants to give their best, but I don’t respect those who don’t respect others. Once again, I say that I’m proud of the woman I have, of the family I have. We’re proud of Rute, for the strength she’s shown. We’re here for whatever it takes, she knows that. Thank you.”