Liverpool Football Club has officially retired the number 20 shirt worn by Portuguese forward Diogo Jota, following his tragic death in a car accident last week. The 28-year-old died alongside his brother, fellow footballer André Silva, near Zamora in north-western Spain.
In a heartfelt statement released on Friday, the club announced that Jota’s number would be permanently withdrawn across all levels of the club — including the men’s and women’s teams, as well as academy squads.
“It was the number he wore with pride and distinction, leading us to countless victories in the process. Diogo Jota will forever be Liverpool Football Club’s number 20,” read the tribute.
Jota had just wrapped up the most successful season of his career, helping Liverpool clinch a record-equalling 20th English league title and playing a crucial role in Portugal’s UEFA Nations League triumph. He made 182 appearances for Liverpool, scored 65 goals, and won multiple trophies, including the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup.
The decision to retire his shirt number was made after consultations with his family, the club confirmed.
Michael Edwards, chief executive of football at Liverpool’s parent company Fenway Sports Group, described the move as unprecedented.
“I believe this is the first time in Liverpool Football Club’s history that such an honour has been bestowed upon an individual. Therefore, we can say this is a unique tribute to a uniquely wonderful person,” Edwards said.
“By retiring this squad number, we are making it eternal — never to be forgotten. As a club, we were all acutely aware of the sentiment of our supporters, and we felt exactly the same way.”
The footballing world has continued to mourn Jota’s passing. Last weekend, players from Liverpool and the Portuguese national team joined his family and friends in laying him and his brother to rest.
Back in Liverpool, fans gathered outside Anfield to pay their respects, leaving flowers, scarves, and messages of love in memory of a player admired for his drive, humility, and unrelenting passion on the pitch.
