Liverpool Football Club has announced plans to immortalise Diogo Jota’s iconic No. 20 jersey in a heartfelt tribute following the Portuguese forward’s tragic death in a car accident in Spain on Thursday. Jota, 28, and his younger brother, Andre Silva, 26, both lost their lives in the crash, sending shockwaves through the global football community.
In a solemn statement, Liverpool reflected on Jota’s significant contributions during the 2024–25 season, which ended with the club’s 20th English league title. “The No. 20 will be rightly immortalised for his contributions as part of Liverpool’s 2024-25 title-winners – the club’s 20th – with his trademark shimmy and strike in front of the Kop to seal victory in April’s Merseyside derby a poignant last goal of his life,” the club announced.
This marks an unprecedented move for the Reds, who have never previously retired a jersey number in honor of a player. While details of the tribute remain unconfirmed, the decision to preserve Jota’s number underlines the impact he had both on and off the pitch.
Jota began his professional journey in his hometown of Porto, rising through the youth ranks at Paços de Ferreira. He later signed with Atlético Madrid in 2016, before loan spells at FC Porto and a breakout stint with Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League. His move to Liverpool in 2020 proved to be transformative, with the forward becoming a vital figure in the club’s domestic and European pursuits.
Under manager Jurgen Klopp, Jota helped Liverpool win both the FA Cup and League Cup. His crowning achievement came under new boss Arne Slot, playing a key role in the title-winning campaign of 2024–25. Internationally, he wore the Portuguese colors with pride, helping his nation to UEFA Nations League triumphs in 2019 and again in 2025.
Fans and fellow footballers alike have expressed their grief and admiration, with many calling on Liverpool to formally retire his number. The club’s response, though not yet finalized, signals a deep respect for Jota’s legacy.
What was to be a summer of celebration for Liverpool has turned somber. The joy of a long-awaited sporting triumph quickly gave way to heartbreak, reminding the football world of how fragile life can be.
