Liverpool have confirmed they will “immortalise” Diogo Jota’s No. 20 shirt in memory of the Portuguese forward, who tragically passed away in a car accident in Spain on Thursday.
In a statement, the club said:
“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.”
Jota died alongside his younger brother, André Silva, aged 26. Tributes have poured in from across football and beyond for the much-loved pair.
Jota, 28, was born in Porto and began his career at Paços de Ferreira before moving to Atlético Madrid in 2016. After loan spells at Porto and Wolves, he made his mark in the Premier League with a permanent move to Wolverhampton Wanderers.
But it was at Liverpool where he shone the most. Under Jürgen Klopp, he helped the club win both the FA Cup and League Cup. Under Arne Slot, he played a key role in Liverpool’s 2024/25 Premier League title win.
He was also a regular for Portugal, winning the UEFA Nations League in both 2019 and 2025.
Liverpool have never retired a shirt number before, but fans are calling for the club to make an exception to honour Jota’s legacy. While details of the tribute are yet to be confirmed, his No. 20 shirt will now always be remembered with deep respect.
It with heavy heart to say rest in peace our dearest legend Diogo Jota 😭. My sincerest condolences goes to the Liverpool FC, the teammates, fans of LFC, his wife, children and the immediate family. May the Almighty Allah console them in this difficult moment. Diogo Jota wasn’t only a player but a legend, a hero, a fighter a goal puncher, a man who loves his family and everyone around him. His love for his teammates wasn’t just in the pitch but also off the pitch he put smile in their faces. His love for his wife and children was absolutely amazing. Good bye Diogo Jota 😭💔 go and take your rest the No. 20 is forever yours. Your unforgettable memories will never depart from us we love you ❤️ our dearest legend Diogo Jota 😭💔😭😭 .
A Liverpool fan from sierra Leone