Liverpool have retired the number 20 shirt in memory of forward, Diogo Jota following his death at 28 years-old.
Jota died on Thursday 3 July in a road accident in Zamora, Spain, alongside his brother – Andre Silva and following worldwide outpouring of grief, Liverpool have announced that his shirt number 20 would be retired as a tribute to his memory.
The club consulted with his wife, Rute, plus family on the decision with the shirt number retired at all levels of Liverpool Football Club, including Women and Academy teams in ‘recognition’ of Jota’s ‘immeasurable contribution’ and ‘profound personal impact’ upon the club.
“As a club, we were all acutely aware of the sentiment of our supporters – and we felt exactly the same way,” explained Michael Edwards, FSG CEO of Football.
“It was vitally important to us to involve Diogo’s wife, Rute, and his family in the decision and to ensure they were the first to know of our intention.
“I believe this is the first time in Liverpool Football Club’s history that such an honour has been bestowed upon an individual. Therefore, we can say this is a unique tribute to a uniquely wonderful person.
“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, 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.”
Liverpool are now preparing for their first pre-season friendly away to Preston North End on Sunday 13 July, which will now be broadcast live on ITV1 in the UK, with coverage commencing at 2:40pm ahead of a pre-match minute’s silence.
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