Liverpool has officially retired Diogo Jota’s number 20 shirt
Liverpool FC has announced that Diogo Jota’s number 20 jersey will no longer be worn by any player across the club’s senior and junior teams, including the women’s side and the academy. This historic gesture comes after Jota and his brother Andre Silva died in a road crash in northern Spain earlier this month.
The club revealed it had decided after discussions with Jota’s wife, Rute, and his close family.
“In honour of Diogo’s memory, his number will be retired across all levels,” the club said in a statement on Friday.
Liverpool’s CEO, Michael Edwards, described the move as “a one-of-a-kind tribute for a one-of-a-kind player.” He noted that this is a first in the club’s history, showing just how deeply Jota touched lives on and off the pitch.
Jota, aged 27, passed away along with his brother when the Lamborghini they were travelling in veered off the road and caught fire. His death came barely two weeks after he married his longtime partner. He leaves behind three young children.
Liverpool will return to the pitch this Sunday in a pre-season match against Preston North End, their first game since the tragedy. A series of tributes will take place before kickoff:
Preston will lay a wreath before Liverpool fans’ minute’s silence will be held, teams will wear black armbands, “You’ll Never Walk Alone” will be played in his honour, and stadium screens will display a digital memorial
Diogo Jota joined Liverpool from Wolves in 2020 and quickly became a fan favourite. Known for his hard work, eye for goal and quiet leadership, he was a key figure during Jurgen Klopp’s final years and had recently stepped up as a dressing room leader.
Liverpool coach Arne Slot and club captain Virgil van Dijk, along with other first-team players, were among those who attended his emotional funeral last Saturday.
By retiring his jersey, Liverpool has made it clear Jota’s name will live on forever at Anfield.
