Liverpool has decided to retire the number 20 shirt to honour forward Diogo Jota, who sadly passed away in a car accident alongside his brother, Andre Silva.
The club made this decision after discussions with Jota’s wife, Rute Cardoso, and his family, ensuring that the Portugal international “will always be Liverpool’s number 20.”
In a statement, Liverpool confirmed that the number “will be retired in honour and memory of Diogo across all levels,” including the women’s team and the academy.
They added: “This decision acknowledges not only the immense contribution our player from Portugal made to the Reds’ successes on the pitch over the past five years, but also the deep personal impact he had on his teammates, colleagues, and supporters, as well as the lasting bonds he created with them.”
Jota joined Liverpool from Wolves in 2020 and netted 65 goals in 182 appearances for the club.
He played a key role in helping the team win the FA Cup and League Cup in 2022, as well as the Premier League title last season.
This marked Liverpool’s 20th top-flight title, and the club shared a video on social media with the message ‘forever our number 20′ at 20:20 BST on Friday.
“As a club, we were very aware of our supporters’ feelings, and we shared the same sentiment,” said Michael Edwards, chief executive of football at Fenway Sports Group.
“It was crucial for us to involve Diogo’s wife, Rute, and his family in this decision and to ensure they were the first to learn of our plans.”
He continued, “I believe this is the first time in Liverpool’s history that such an honor has been given to an individual.
“Thus, we can say this is a unique tribute to a truly remarkable person. By retiring this squad number, we are making it eternal and ensuring he is never forgotten.”
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Jota and his brother lost their lives when their Lamborghini veered off the road due to a tire blowout while overtaking another vehicle around 00:30 local time on Thursday, July 3.
Jota was returning to Liverpool for pre-season training and, having been advised against flying after minor surgery, chose to travel by car and ferry.
The brothers’ funeral took place in their hometown of Gondomar last Saturday, with a significant Liverpool delegation in attendance.
Jota’s wife, Rute Cardoso, along with family members and Liverpool’s squad, visited Anfield on Friday to pay their respects.
Cardoso, who had three children with Jota and had married him just 11 days before his tragic accident, was seen carrying flowers as she observed the numerous tributes left outside the stadium in memory of Jota and his brother.
Liverpool players and staff have shared personal tributes throughout the week, but the squad united in their remembrance.
