💔 Liverpool to Retire Diogo Jota’s Number 20 Shirt After Tragic Death
In a poignant and historic gesture, Liverpool Football Club has announced it will retire the number 20 shirt in memory of Portuguese forward Diogo Jota, who tragically died alongside his brother Andre Silva in a car crash last week.
The decision, made after consultation with Jota’s wife Rute Cardoso and his family, ensures that “Diogo will forever be Liverpool’s number 20,” the club stated on Friday evening.
“This is a unique tribute to a uniquely wonderful person,” said Michael Edwards, FSG's chief executive of football.
“By retiring this squad number, we are making it eternal – and therefore never to be forgotten.”
🟥 A Legacy Etched in Red
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Jota joined Liverpool in 2020 from Wolves.
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Scored 65 goals in 182 appearances.
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Helped win the FA Cup and League Cup (2022) and the Premier League title (2024/25) – Liverpool’s 20th league crown.
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Liverpool shared a moving video tribute at 20:20 BST, captioned “Forever our number 20.”
Jota’s impact extended far beyond goals. Known for his humility and work ethic, he was beloved by teammates, staff, and fans alike.
🕯️ A Club in Mourning
Jota, 28, and his brother Andre died after their Lamborghini suffered a tyre blowout and left the road while overtaking another vehicle during a night drive back to Liverpool.
Jota had undergone minor surgery recently and was advised not to fly, prompting him to travel by car and ferry for pre-season preparations.
“We were all acutely aware of the sentiment of our supporters,” Edwards said.
“It was vitally important to involve Rute and the family from the start.”
🏟️ Tributes at Anfield and Beyond
On Friday, Jota’s wife, Rute Cardoso – who had married the footballer just 11 days before the crash – visited Anfield with their three children, joined by Liverpool manager Arne Slot, players, and staff.
A wealth of flowers, scarves, and letters now line the gates of Anfield in tribute to Jota and his brother.
Their funeral took place last Saturday in Gondomar, Portugal, with a large Liverpool delegation in attendance.
⚽ Football Carries On – But the Grief Remains
Liverpool will return to action on Sunday in a pre-season match against Preston North End at Deepdale. A minute's silence will be observed, with tributes planned throughout the game.
“This is not just about football. It’s about family, loss, and remembrance,” a Liverpool spokesperson said.
“Diogo and Andre will never walk alone.”
