Diogo Jota’s number 20 jersey will no longer be in use at Liverpool
In an unprecedented and deeply emotional gesture, Liverpool Football Club has permanently retired the number 20 shirt across all levels of the club in honor of their late forward Diogo Jota who tragically passed away alongside his brother André Silva in a car accident in Spain on July 3, 2025.
The decision announced on Friday marks the first time in the club’s 133-year history that a shirt number has been retired, underscoring the profound impact Jota had on the Reds both on and off the pitch.
Jota, who joined Liverpool from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020, became a fan favorite for his clinical finishing, relentless work rate and humble personality.
The Portuguese international, aged 28 at the time of his death made 182 appearances for the club scoring 65 goals including a memorable strike in the Merseyside derby against Everton in April 2025.
His contributions were instrumental in Liverpool securing their 20th English league title in the 2024-25 season, a poetic symmetry with the No. 20 he wore with pride.
The decision to retire the number 20 shirt which will apply to the men’s, women’s and academy teams was made after consultations with Jota’s wife, Rute Cardoso and his family.
“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,” Michael Edwards, Fenway Sports Group CEO of Football, said.
On Friday, Liverpool’s first team squad alongside Jota’s family, visited a memorial site outside Anfield where fans had left flowers, scarves, and messages.
Captain Virgil Van Dijk carried a floral tribute shaped as the No. 20 while manager Arne Slot and players like Mohamed Salah and Luis Díaz paid their respects.
“Diogo was a champion forever, number 20 forever”, “He was a family man, a friend, and an inspiration”, Van Dijk said.
“Diogo Jota will forever be Liverpool Football Club’s number 20″, the club’s statement concluded.
For a player who gave everything for the badge, Anfield has ensured his name and number will never be forgotten.
ALL/AME
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