Liverpool Football Club has announced it will retire the number 20 shirt worn by Diogo Jota, following the tragic deaths of the Portuguese forward and his brother, Andre Silva, in a car accident in Spain on July 3.
In what marks a historic first for the Merseyside club in its 133-year existence, the number 20 shirt will no longer be worn at any level, covering the men’s and women’s teams as well as all academy sides.
The decision, made in close consultation with Jota’s wife, Rute, and other family members, serves as a permanent tribute to the player’s legacy both on and off the pitch.
In a statement released on Friday, Liverpool said, “The move is recognition of not only the immeasurable contribution our lad from Portugal made to the Reds’ on-pitch successes over the last five years, but also the profound personal impact he had on his teammates, colleagues and supporters and the everlasting connections he built with them.”
Liverpool CEO Michael Edwards emphasized the depth of sentiment behind the tribute, stating, “As a club, we were all acutely aware of the sentiment of our supporters – and we felt exactly the same way. It was vitally important to us to involve Diogo’s wife, Rute, and his family in the decision and to ensure they were the first to know of our intention.”
He added, “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. By retiring this squad number, we are making it eternal – and therefore never to be forgotten.”
Jota, who joined Liverpool in 2020, quickly became a fan favorite and a key part of the club’s recent successes.
Edwards reflected, “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.”
To further honor Jota and Silva, Liverpool has scheduled a tribute during Sunday’s pre-season friendly against Preston.
Before the 3pm kick-off, ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ will be played, while Preston representatives will lay a wreath near the away fans.
A minute’s silence will follow, accompanied by digital memorials shown on the stadium’s big screen and pitchside displays.
Players from both sides will don black armbands, and the matchday programme will include written tributes to both brothers.
