Liverpool have confirmed that they will retire the number 20 shirt in memory of former striker Diogo Jota following the Portuguese star's tragic death. Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, lost their lives in a car accident in northwestern Spain. An investigation into the incident has determined that Jota was likely the driver of the vehicle.
The football world has continued to mourn the pair's shocking passing, with the start of Liverpool's pre-season disrupted as players return to the club under sombre circumstances. However, after early indications that Jota’s number 20 would be "immortalised," the official plans have now been revealed.
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Liverpool Confirm Number 20 Retirement
The club released a statement
In a statement released on the club's official website, it was announced that Jota's number 20 would be retired across all teams at Liverpool, following consultation with his wife, Rute.
"It was the number he wore with pride and distinction, leading us to countless victories in the process – and Diogo Jota will forever be Liverpool Football Club’s number 20. After consultation with his wife, Rute, and family, the club can announce the squad number will be retired in honour and memory of Diogo across all levels, including LFC Women and Academy."
"The move is recognition of not only the immeasurable contribution our lad from Portugal made to the Reds’ on-pitch successes over the last five years, but also the profound personal impact he had on his teammates, colleagues and supporters and the everlasting connections he built with them."
CEO Michael Edwards also commented on the decision, adding:
"As a club, we were all acutely aware of the sentiment of our supporters – and we felt exactly the same way. 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."
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Newcastle United Fans Planning Classy Diogo Jota Tribute
Newcastle United supporters are planning a special gesture to pay tribute to Liverpool forward Diogo Jota.
Liverpool fans had been calling for the club to take the action of retiring the shirt number in the immediate aftermath of Jota's death, with the club even suggesting in a statement last week that the number 20 would be immortalised.