Liverpool Football Club continues to honour the memory of Diogo Jota with a season-long tribute, as players wear the ‘Forever 20’ emblem on their kits and stadium jackets. The gesture was prominently featured during today’s pre-season friendly against AC Milan at Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong.
Before kick-off, a mosaic reading “DJ 20” filled one side of the stadium, and Sir Kenny Dalglish laid a wreath in remembrance of Jota and his brother André Silva, who tragically passed away earlier this month.
The match ended 4–2 in favour of AC Milan. Rafael Leão opened the scoring in the 13th minute, paying tribute to Jota in his celebration. Liverpool responded through Dominik Szoboszlai with a superb equaliser in the 26th minute, set up by 17-year-old Rio Ngumoha. Ruben Loftus-Cheek gave Milan the lead again early in the second half, followed by Noah Okafor’s brace in the 59th and 90+4th minutes. Cody Gakpo added a late goal for Liverpool in stoppage time, but it wasn’t enough to overturn the deficit.
Despite the result, the emotional weight of the tribute overshadowed the match. Fans showed deep appreciation, and players wore the emblem with pride. Florian Wirtz made his debut following his £116m transfer, while Harvey Elliott returned after his U21 Euro triumph.
Supporters can personalise shirts with “Diogo J. 20,” with all proceeds supporting a grassroots football programme through the LFC Foundation. Additionally, a sculpture made from recycled tributes will be erected outside Anfield, and Jota’s number 20 shirt will be permanently retired across all club levels.
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