Liverpool have announced they will permanently retire the number 20 shirt to honour Diogo Jota, who died alongside his brother Andre Silva in a car crash in Spain on July 3rd.
It is the first time in the club’s 133-year history that a player’s number has been retired, with the tribute extending across all levels, including the women’s and academy teams.
The decision was made after discussions with Jota’s wife, Rute, and other family members.
Liverpool described Jota’s contribution as “immeasurable,” praising not just his on-pitch achievements since joining in 2020, but also his personal impact on teammates, staff and supporters.
CEO Michael Edwards said the club shared the same sentiment as fans, calling the tribute a “unique honour” for a “uniquely wonderful person,” and declaring: “By retiring this squad number, we are making it eternal and therefore never to be forgotten.”