Liverpool Football Club has taken a historic and emotional step by retiring the number 20 jersey in memory of Diogo Jota, following his tragic death in a car accident alongside his brother, André Silva, on July 3, 2025. This is the first time in Liverpool’s 133-year history that a player’s number has been permanently retired, marking a unique tribute to a player who left a lasting mark both on and off the pitch.
A Gesture Beyond the Game
The decision to retire Jota’s number was made after careful consultation with his widow, Rute, and his family, ensuring their wishes were respected and that they were the first to know about the club’s intentions. The retirement of the number 20 will apply across all levels of the club, including the men’s, women’s, and academy teams, making the gesture even more significant.
Michael Edwards, CEO of Football for Liverpool’s owners Fenway Sports Group, explained, “By retiring this squad number, we are making it eternal — and therefore never to be forgotten. Diogo joined us in 2020, he won us number 20 [Liverpool's 20th English league title], and he wore — with honour, distinction and affection — the number 20. As far as Liverpool Football Club is concerned, he will be forever our number 20”.
Remembering Diogo Jota
Jota joined Liverpool from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020 and quickly became a key player for the club. In his five years at Anfield, he scored 65 goals in 182 appearances and helped Liverpool win several major trophies, including the Premier League, FA Cup, and two EFL Cups. He was also a hero for the Portuguese national team, earning 49 caps and scoring 14 goals, and was part of the squad that won the UEFA Nations League in 2019 and again in 2025.
But Jota’s impact went far beyond his statistics. He was known for his kindness, work ethic, and the strong bonds he formed with teammates, staff, and fans. The club’s statement emphasized that the retirement of his number recognizes not only his achievements but also the personal connections he fostered during his time in Liverpool.
Community and Family at the Heart
The club’s response to Jota’s passing has been deeply rooted in community and family. Many Liverpool players and staff attended his funeral in Portugal, and tributes have poured in from fans around the world. On Friday, Jota’s wife Rute, along with their three children and family members, visited Anfield to see the many flowers, scarves, and messages left in his memory. The sense of loss has been felt not just by the club, but by the entire football community.
Ahead of Liverpool’s first match since Jota’s death, a friendly against Preston North End, the club has planned a series of tributes. These include a minute’s silence, players wearing black armbands, and a special rendition of “You’ll Never Walk Alone”. Preston will also lay a wreath, and digital tributes will be displayed throughout the stadium.
A Unique and Lasting Tribute
Retiring a jersey is a rare gesture in football, especially in England, where tradition usually sees numbers passed down through generations. For Liverpool, this decision is not just about honoring a player, but about keeping the memory of a beloved person alive for future generations. It sends a message that some contributions go beyond what happens on the field — that character, kindness, and the way someone touches the lives of others are just as important as goals and trophies.
What People Are Saying
Fans and commentators have largely supported the decision, seeing it as a fitting way to honor Jota’s legacy. Many have shared stories of his generosity and humility, both in Liverpool and in his hometown in Portugal. Some have suggested that this move could set a new standard for how clubs remember players who have made a deep impact, not just through sporting achievements but through their humanity.
At the same time, there are voices in the football world who urge caution, reminding clubs to reserve such honors for truly exceptional circumstances. For Liverpool, the combination of Jota’s achievements, the circumstances of his death, and the affection he inspired made this a clear choice.
Looking Forward
As Liverpool prepares for the new season, the number 20 will remain unworn, a permanent reminder of Diogo Jota’s place in the club’s history. For young fans — and for anyone who loves football — the story of Jota’s time at Liverpool will be about more than just goals and games. It will be about how a club and its community came together to remember and celebrate a person who gave them so much joy, both as a player and as a friend.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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