Liverpool FC to Honor Diogo Jota by Immortalizing His Jersey Number
Liverpool's Heartfelt Tribute to Diogo Jota
Liverpool Football Club has announced that they will immortalize Diogo Jota's No. 20 jersey in memory of the Portuguese forward, who tragically lost his life in a car accident in Spain on Thursday. This emotional announcement has left fans and fellow players deeply affected.
In a touching tribute, the club stated, "The No. 20 will be forever honored for his contributions during Liverpool's 2024-25 title-winning season—the club's 20th—highlighted by his memorable goal in the Merseyside derby last April, which marked the last goal of his career."
This decision is historic, as Liverpool has never retired a jersey number in its 133-year existence.
A Tragic Loss
Diogo Jota, aged 28, and his younger brother, André Silva, 26, tragically died in a car accident on the A-52 highway in Zamora, Spain. Their Lamborghini Urus lost control and caught fire after a tire blew while overtaking another vehicle. Authorities confirmed both men died at the scene.
They were reportedly en route to Santander to catch a ferry back to England. Jota was set to rejoin Liverpool's preseason training after being advised against flying due to recent lung surgery.
Fans Unite in Mourning
The news has sent shockwaves through the football community. Outside Anfield, fans gathered to pay tribute by laying flowers, lighting candles, and leaving Liverpool scarves adorned with heartfelt messages. The call to retire Jota's No. 20 shirt has gained momentum on social media, with supporters deeming it a "symbolic gesture of utmost importance."
Despite its rich history, Liverpool has never retired a jersey number, but the club is considering making an exception for Jota, with plans for the tribute still being finalized.
Tributes from the Football Community
Liverpool's new manager, Arne Slot, expressed his sorrow in an open letter dedicated to Jota and his brother. He stated, "The shock we feel as a club is profound. My thoughts are with the family of Diogo and Andre Silva during this unimaginable time."
Slot reassured the family, saying, "You will never walk alone. The players, staff, and supporters of Liverpool FC stand with you, as does the broader football community." He added, "Diogo was not just a player; he was cherished by all of us. He held a special place in our hearts."
Klopp's Heartfelt Reflection
Jürgen Klopp, Jota's former manager, shared his grief on Instagram, stating, "This is a moment where I struggle. There must be a greater purpose, but I can't see it."
He continued, "Diogo was not only an exceptional player but also a wonderful friend, a loving husband, and a devoted father. We will miss him dearly."
From Porto to Premier League Success
Born in Porto, Jota began his football journey at Paços de Ferreira's youth academy. He signed with Atletico Madrid in 2016 but truly flourished during his loan at Porto and his time at Wolverhampton Wanderers. It was at Liverpool where he achieved remarkable success.
Under Klopp, he won both the FA Cup and League Cup. Last season, under Slot, he played a crucial role in securing Liverpool's 20th Premier League title.
On the international stage, he was part of Portugal's UEFA Nations League-winning teams in 2019 and 2025.
Jota is survived by his wife, Rute Cardoso, his childhood sweetheart, whom he married just days before the accident, and their three children. His younger brother, André Silva, was also a professional footballer playing for Penafiel in Liga Portugal 2.
As the Liverpool fans say, You'll Never Walk Alone. In Diogo Jota's case, he never did—and never will.