The grief for Diogo Jota is immense. © ANSA / NUNO VEIGA

Liverpool will never give away Jota's number 20 again

In memory of their deceased professional Diogo Jota, English football champions Liverpool FC will never again give out the shirt number 20.

July 12, 2025

From: dpa/det

"By retiring this number, we are making it immortal—and thus forever unforgettable," Liverpool sporting director Michael Edwards said in a statement. Jota will "forever be our number 20."

The decision was made after consulting with Jota's widow, who visited Liverpool with the family on Friday. "I believe this is the first time in the history of Liverpool Football Club that such an honor has been bestowed upon an individual. Therefore, we can say this is a unique tribute to a unique, wonderful person," Edwards continued.

The number 20 will never be given away again in Liverpool. © APA/afp / MARK NAFTALIN

This honor recognizes not only Jota's "immeasurable contribution" to the Reds' success, but also "the profound personal impact" Jota had on his teammates, colleagues, and fans, the statement said. Jota died in a car accident in Spain last week. His brother, André Silva, also died with him.