Liverpool to immortalise No 20 in heartfelt tribute to Diogo Jota
Liverpool FC has confirmed that Diogo Jota’s No 20 shirt will be retired—a permanent, emotional tribute to the beloved forward following his tragic passing. The club will immortalise the number, ensuring that future generations will forever connect it with his name and legacy.
Jota, aged 28, died in a car accident in Spain’s Zamora province on July 3, shortly after celebrating a remarkable season: winning the 2024–25 Premier League title with Liverpool and the UEFA Nations League with Portugal. His final goal—an iconic strike in the Merseyside derby—came before a packed Kop and remains etched in fans’ memories as a poignant farewell.
A number and a narrative intertwined
Number 20 was more than just a squad number—it became symbolic of Jota’s rise. Joined in 2020 from Wolves, he donned the shirt, played his part in securing Liverpool’s 20th league crown, and became a fan favourite. His celebrated celebration in front of the Kop sealed an indelible bond between player and supporters.
Fans have echoed the sentiment of permanence. A Change.org petition launched on July 3 urged the club to retire the number “indefinitely in honour of Diogo Jota,” describing it as a “lasting tribute to a player who touched the lives of many”. Tweets such as “Football is the most unimportant thing right now, but I hope Liverpool retire number 20” poured in, reflecting widespread emotional support.
At Anfield, scenes of grief united the football community: rival fans from Everton, Leeds, and Rangers left scarves and jerseys among the sea of flowers outside the stadium. The deputy prime minister and football figures expressed their sorrow; flowers, notes, and chants of “He wears the number 20…” resonated under the Kop in honour of Jota’s memory.
Club statements and emotional resonance
After describing the tragedy as an “unimaginable loss,” Liverpool’s official statement declared: “He will take us to victory”—a line from the terrace chant that so often defined his presence on the pitch.
Manager Arne Slot, visibly overwhelmed, reaffirmed: “When the time is right, we will celebrate Diogo Jota, we will remember his goals and we will sing his song,” promising that his iconic chant will echo through Anfield for years to come.
According to the updated Wikipedia page for retired football numbers, Liverpool’s honour to Jota now stands among other posthumous tributes in football, with the No 20 officially listed as retired.
A legacy etched in red
Diogo Jota’s impact at Liverpool extends far beyond goals and trophies. With skill, humility, and memorable moments, he wove himself into the fabric of the club. By retiring his No 20 shirt, Liverpool ensures that every future wear of the jersey remains a testament to his spirit, his life, and the unwavering bond he shared with the Reds.
May the number 20 forever resonate not just as a numeral on a shirt, but as a beacon of Jota’s enduring legacy at Anfield.