Summary
Liverpool Football Club has confirmed it will retire the number 20 shirt across all levels in honour of Diogo Jota, following the tragic passing of the Portuguese forward in a fatal car accident alongside his brother, André Silva, in northwestern Spain.
Jota, who joined Liverpool in 2020, became a fan favourite through his goal-scoring flair and relentless work ethic.
In a heartfelt gesture, the club has chosen to permanently retire his iconic number, following overwhelming support from fans and in full consultation with his wife, Rute, and his family.
A Tragedy That Shook the Football World
The 27-year-old striker and his brother lost their lives in a car crash last week.
Investigators have since confirmed that Jota was likely the driver of the vehicle.
The shocking news has sent ripples across the global football community, leaving fans, teammates, and rivals mourning the loss of a player admired not just for his talent, but for his humility and character.
Liverpool’s pre-season has understandably begun under sombre circumstances, as players and staff return to training still reeling from the devastating news.
The Number 20 Will Be Retired Forever
In an official club statement released today, Liverpool announced that Jota’s number 20 shirt will be retired across all teams, including LFC Women and Academy squads, to honour the legacy he leaves behind.
“It was the number he wore with pride and distinction,” the statement read.
“Leading us to countless victories in the process – and Diogo Jota will forever be Liverpool Football Club’s number 20.”
The club also emphasised that the decision was made with the full support of Jota’s wife and family, ensuring the tribute reflected their wishes and the deep bond Jota shared with the club.
Michael Edwards: “A Unique Tribute to a Unique Person”
Liverpool CEO Michael Edwards also shared an emotional statement, calling the gesture an “eternal” tribute:
“I believe this is the first time in Liverpool Football Club’s history that such an honour has been bestowed upon an individual. By retiring this squad number, we are making it eternal – and therefore never to be forgotten.”
“Diogo joined us in 2020, he won us number 20, and he wore – with honour, distinction and affection – the number 20. As far as Liverpool Football Club is concerned, he will be forever our number 20.”
A Move Backed by the Fans
In the wake of Jota’s death, fans had taken to social media calling for the number 20 shirt to be immortalised, a sentiment echoed widely across Merseyside and beyond.
The club acknowledged this groundswell of emotion, with last week’s statement hinting that “number 20 would be immortalised” — a promise now fulfilled.
Remembering Diogo Jota
Diogo Jota joined Liverpool from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020 and made 85 Premier League appearances, scoring crucial goals and helping the Reds secure several major wins.
He was part of the team that lifted the 2022 FA Cup and League Cup, and his tireless pressing and clinical finishing earned him admiration from fans and pundits alike.
Beyond the pitch, Jota was known for his quiet demeanour, humility, and strong family values — all of which made him deeply respected within the club and throughout the footballing world.
Forever Number 20
As Liverpool move forward, the number 20 shirt will remain a symbol of Jota’s legacy — one of passion, commitment, and excellence.
In the hearts of the Anfield faithful, Diogo Jota will never walk alone.