Liverpool Football Club has made a momentous decision to permanently retire the No 20 jersey—across the men’s, women’s, and academy sides—as a lasting tribute to forward Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away in a car accident alongside his brother, André Silva, on July 3 2025.
This unprecedented gesture marks the first time in the club’s 133-year history that a squad number has been retired. The decision was made in consultation with Jota’s wife Rute and his entire family. LFC CEO Michael Edwards emphasized the club’s desire to immortalize Jota’s legacy, stating:
“By retiring this squad number, we are making it eternal — and therefore never to be forgotten… He will be forever our number 20.”
Jota, who joined Liverpool in 2020, played a pivotal role in the club securing its 20th league title and became a beloved figure both on and off the pitch. He brought energy, skill, and passion to every match, endearing himself to teammates, staff, and fans alike.
A poignant ceremony took place outside Anfield at 20:20 BST, where Jota’s family, coaches, and players laid roses at the memorial shrine.
Liverpool’s upcoming pre-season friendly against Preston North End will feature further tributes—black armbands, a minute’s silence, wreath-laying, and a rendition of “You’ll Never Walk Alone” —as the club unites under the legacy of their cherished No 20.
This heartfelt decision ensures that whenever No 20 is mentioned at Liverpool, it will evoke the memory of Diogo Jota: our player, our friend, forever our number 20.
