Criticism of Ronaldo for missing Diego Jota's funeral, his sister comes to his defense
2025-07-06 11:15:43
TiranaPost
Cristiano Ronaldo's absence from the funeral of Diogo Jota and his brother, André Silva, has sparked debate in Portugal. As the national team captain and former teammate of Jota, many considered it unacceptable that he did not attend the ceremony in Gondomar.
But Ronaldo's relatives justified the decision, recalling that he has avoided attending public funerals since the death of his father in 2005, for personal reasons and to avoid attracting attention. Portuguese newspaper Record reported that Ronaldo is still traumatized by the loss of his father and does not want his presence to turn a day of mourning into an event focused on him.
His sister, Katia Aveiro, also reacted in his defense, saying: "This criticism is tiring. We live in a sick society. Everyone feels the pain in their own way. I am ashamed that the media and social networks focus on his absence, instead of showing respect for a family that is suffering."
Although he was not physically present, Ronaldo paid tribute on social media: "It makes no sense... we were still with the national team. Rest in peace, Diogo and André. We will miss you." He also sent a private message of support to the Jota family, according to local media.
Meanwhile, players such as Bruno Fernandes, Bernardo Silva, Rúben Dias, Rúben Neves and former Liverpool teammates such as Van Dijk attended the funeral, with Neves carrying the coffin despite having played a match just hours earlier.
