Sometimes, a player’s impact on a football club goes far beyond goals and statistics—it touches the soul of the entire community.
That’s exactly what happened with Diogo Jota at Liverpool.
In a deeply touching tribute, the club has decided to retire the number 20 shirt from all of its teams, permanently honouring the memory of a player who meant so much to so many.
Family Visits Anfield Memorial After Tragic Loss
Since the devastating car accident in Northern Spain that claimed the lives of Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, fans have been gathering at Anfield to lay flowers and leave heartfelt messages.
Earlier this week, Jota’s widow, Rute Cardoso, along with close family members, visited the growing memorial site outside the stadium.
Their visit was met with quiet reverence, as supporters continued to pay their respects to a player who was more than just a footballer.
Liverpool Squad Reunites in Grief and Solidarity
The Liverpool first team returned to training on Tuesday, visibly affected but united in their grief.
The squad will step onto the pitch for the first time since the tragedy on Sunday in a friendly match against Preston.
To honour Jota and his brother, both teams will observe a minute’s silence, and players will wear black armbands.
Preston will also lay a wreath before kickoff near the away supporters’ section.
A Player Loved for More Than Just His Talent
Jota’s six Premier League goals during Liverpool’s title-winning season were critical—each one directly contributing to the club’s success.
But it wasn’t just his football that won hearts.
His down-to-earth nature, humility, and kindness made him a favourite in the dressing room and with fans.
Teammates often spoke about his ability to uplift others, and staff admired his work ethic and joyful spirit.
Club Breaks Tradition to Retire the Number 20 Shirt
In a move never before taken in the club’s long and illustrious history, Liverpool has officially retired the number 20 shirt in Jota’s honour.
This decision wasn’t made lightly.
The club consulted closely with Rute and the rest of Jota’s family before making the announcement.
It’s a rare and deeply significant step that underscores just how loved and respected he was.
Michael Edwards Reflects on the Unique Tribute
Michael Edwards, CEO of Football at FSG, spoke candidly about the process behind the tribute.
He acknowledged that the emotion felt by fans was shared throughout the club.
“We felt it was vital that Diogo’s wife and family were involved in this decision,” he explained.
“This is a one-of-a-kind honour for a one-of-a-kind person.”
Edwards went on to say, “Diogo joined Liverpool in 2020. He wore the number 20 with pride and passion.
Now, that number is eternal—it belongs to him and only him. For us, he will always be our number 20.”
A Club-Wide Gesture Across All Teams
What makes this decision even more remarkable is that the retirement of the number 20 isn’t limited to the men’s first team.
Liverpool is extending this tribute to every team under its banner: the women’s side, the Academy boys, and the Academy girls.
It’s a club-wide honour, and one that further emphasises how Jota’s influence reached every corner of the organisation.
FSG Leadership Shares Their Heartfelt Message
FSG’s senior leadership—Billy Hogan, John Henry, Tom Werner, and Mike Gordon—issued a joint statement echoing the club’s sentiment.
“This has never happened in the history of Liverpool Football Club, which says everything about who Diogo was and what he meant to us.”
Their message also extended warmth to Jota’s grieving family: “Our hearts remain with Rute, their three beautiful children, and the entire family as they face this painful loss.”
What Comes Next?
As the football world continues to mourn, Liverpool is turning its pain into purpose.
The club’s next steps may include further commemorations or long-term projects to keep Jota’s legacy alive.
What’s certain is that the number 20 will never be worn again—and the man who wore it so proudly will never be forgotten.