Liverpool Retire Diogo Jota’s No. 20 Shirt in Emotional Tribute

Liverpool FC has officially retired the iconic No. 20 jersey worn by the late Diogo Jota as a lasting homage to the Portuguese forward’s impactful—and now tragically cut-short—legacy.

In a heartfelt club statement, Liverpool confirmed that no player will wear the No. 20 shirt again, a decision made “to immortalise his contributions as part of Liverpool’s 2024‑25 title‑winning campaign” — notably the club’s 20th English top-flight crown. The alignment of Jota’s shirt number with Liverpool’s 20th league title added poignancy to the tribute.

Jota’s last professional goal—a trademark shimmy and strike in front of the Kop during the Merseyside Derby at Anfield in April—sealed a 1‑0 victory over Everton and helped secure Liverpool’s dominant season. This moment has since been enshrined as the final, unforgettable flourish of a player who gave everything for the club.

Manager Arne Slot, visibly grieved, described the moment as one of raw shock and sorrow, saying, “What can anyone say at a time like this… My first thoughts are not those of a football manager. They are of a father, a son, a brother and an uncle…”

Fans have urged the club to permanently retire Jota’s number, with petitions and emotional appeals emerging soon after the news of his death.

Diogo José Teixeira da Silva, aged 28, joined Liverpool in 2020 from Wolves for a reported £41 million, quickly becoming known for his versatility, pressing intensity, and influential goals. Over five seasons, he made a lasting mark at Anfield—amassing 65 goals in 182 appearances, and contributing key moments across the Premier League, FA Cup, and EFL Cup.

Alongside club success, Jota claimed international glory—most recently winning the UEFA Nations League with Portugal in 2025. His untimely death, alongside his brother André Silva in a car crash on 3 July 2025 while travelling in Spain, sent shock waves through football and elicited condolences from figures across the sport.

Clubs rarely retire shirt numbers, but Liverpool’s decision joins a distinguished list—such as Manchester City’s retirement of Marc‑Vivien Foé’s No. 23 in 2003 after his sudden passing. According to records, Liverpool becomes the first Premier League club to retire a number in its 133‑year history—marking Jota’s legacy as unique and enduring.