In a deeply emotional gesture, Liverpool Football Club has announced the retirement of Jersey No. 20 across all levels to honour forward Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away in a car accident in Spain.
The incident, which also claimed the life of his brother Andre Silva, occurred just ten days after Jota’s wedding to Rute Cardoso.
The 28-year-old Portugal international had been a beloved figure at Anfield since joining the club in 2020. His sudden demise has sent shockwaves across the footballing world. Teammates, including Cristiano Ronaldo, and clubs worldwide paid tributes to Jota, whose funeral was held in Portugal earlier this week.
“Forever Our Number 20”: Liverpool’s Tribute
In an official statement, Liverpool wrote:
“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.”
Manager Arne Slot’s Heartfelt Tribute
Liverpool manager Arne Slot also paid an emotional tribute, highlighting Jota’s passion, work ethic, and embodiment of Liverpool’s spirit:
“Diogo was not just our player. He was a loved one to all of us. He was a teammate, a colleague, a workmate — and in all of those roles, he was very special… Hard work, desire, commitment, great quality, goals. The essence of what a Liverpool player should be.”
Jota’s death marks one of the most heartbreaking moments in recent football memory, and Liverpool’s decision to retire his shirt number ensures his legacy will remain an indelible part of the club’s history.
