Al-Hilal and Portugal midfielder Ruben Neves has issued a strong rebuttal to a Portuguese magazine after it published speculation about his relationship with Diogo Jota’s widow, Rute Cardoso. The controversial feature, which appeared on the front page of TV Guia, came just weeks after the Liverpool forward’s tragic death in a car accident.
The magazine suggested a “special bond” between Neves and Cardoso, publishing a cover captioned: “Ruben Neves and Rute United After Death. How Jota’s widow leans on her best friend.” The midfielder swiftly condemned the story, calling it both insensitive and disrespectful.
The heartbreaking Diogo Jota car crash
The global football community was left in shock when Jota, 28, and his brother Andre Silva, 25, lost their lives in a car crash in Zamora, Spain, in July. Just 11 days before the accident, Jota had married his longtime partner, Rute Cardoso, with whom he shared three children.
As tributes poured in from across the world, Wolverhampton Wanderers—where Diogo Jota and Ruben Neves played together—paid their respects ahead of their Premier League opener against Manchester City on August 16. Neves was seen offering support to Cardoso during the emotional occasion, which the magazine later used as the basis for its controversial article.
Ruben Neves defends his family and condemns the magazine
Ruben Neves, who has been married to Debora Lourenco for more than a decade, expressed outrage at the insinuations. Taking to Instagram, the midfielder commented on the magazine’s post, stressing his commitment to his family while condemning the editorial decision:
“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.”
Outrage over insensitivity
Fans and media observers have criticized TV Guia for sensationalizing such a sensitive matter. Many have praised Ruben Neves for standing up for his wife and family while continuing to show compassion for Diogo Jota’s grieving widow.
The incident highlights the tension between media narratives and personal boundaries, especially in times of mourning. For Neves, the priority remains supporting Rute Cardoso and her children while protecting his own family from unfounded speculation.