Portugal international Ruben Neves has hit out strongly after Portuguese magazine TV Guia published a misleading photo of himself with Rute Cardoso—the widow of his former teammate Diogo Jota. Neves called the use of the said photograph on the magazine's cover as the work of a person who doesn't deserve to be happy.
On June 22, Liverpool attacker Diogo Jota and his long-time partner Rute Cardoso tied the knot, surrounded by their three children. Tragedy struck days later, and Neves held Cardoso close in the moment of great pain. Jota (28) and his brother Andre Silva (26) died in a car crash in northwestern Spain on July 3, 2025, when their Lamborghini veered off the road and burst into flames. Evidence at the scene of the crash near the city of Zamora suggests Jota's car suffered a burst tyre while overtaking, Spanish police said in a statement.
Jota and Neves were best friends as they played together for Porto, Wolves, and Portugal, forming an incredible bond on and off the field.
The photograph published on TV Guia's cover was likely taken just before the pair shared an embrace or a kiss on the cheek. However, the way it was placed gave the impression that they were about to share a romantic moment. "How Diogo Jota's widow leans on her best friend," the caption that accompanied the photo read.
As per reports, the reportage did a decent job of covering Neves' bond with the Jota household, but the photograph was a purposeful bait—a characteristically sensational move by tabloids. Neves was careful not to criticise the report but went after the photograph alone on social media. Neves underlined how he was happy with his long-time partner Débora Lourenco and proud of the way he was able to support Rute and her family.
What Ruben Neves said on Instagram
"I always believe in the good in people, I've been warned not to, I've already been deceived, and I never wish bad on anyone. The person who put this picture on the magazine cover does not deserve to be happy, just like the choice of it was not happy. My wife and I, @deboralourenco23, have been together for over 11 years, happy, with a family that makes me proud. Never in 11 years have we been involved in any controversy," he said.
"We have done our best to help Rute and her family in the best way we can. The choice of this photo is as unhappy 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 do their best; I don't respect those who don't respect others. I'm proud of the woman I have, the family I have. We're proud of Rute for the strength she's had. We're here for whatever it takes; she knows. Thank you," he wrote.
