Liverpool have confirmed that the number 20 shirt will be permanently retired in honour of Diogo Jota following the tragic passing of the Portuguese forward and his brother Andre Silva earlier this month.
Jota’s shirt will no longer be worn at any level of the club, including the women’s and academy teams, marking the first time in the club’s history that a squad number has been withdrawn.
The decision, announced on the club’s official website, was made after close consultation with Jota’s wife, Rute, and his family. It recognises both his contribution on the pitch and the personal impact he made off it during five successful years at Anfield.
Jota joined Liverpool from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020 and scored 65 goals in 182 appearances. He played a pivotal role in helping the club win the FA Cup and League Cup in 2022, lifting the League Cup again in 2024 and the Premier League title in 2025.
But for many, Jota’s value went beyond statistics. His work ethic, humility and warmth left a lasting impression on teammates, staff and supporters alike.
“This is a unique tribute to a uniquely wonderful person,” said Liverpool’s Football CEO Michael Edwards. “By retiring this squad number, we are making it eternal – and therefore never to be forgotten.”
Edwards added that the club had listened closely to its fanbase and wanted to reflect the sentiment shared by supporters. “As far as Liverpool Football Club is concerned, he will be forever our number 20.”
Jota and his brother were killed in a car crash in Spain on July 3, just 11 days after Jota married his long-time partner Rute. He had been making the journey back to Liverpool for pre-season via car and ferry, having been advised not to fly following minor surgery.
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His funeral was held in his hometown of Gondomar, with a Liverpool delegation in attendance. Rute later visited Anfield with her children to view the tributes left by supporters.
Liverpool will pay tribute to Jota and Silva before Sunday’s friendly against Preston North End. A minute’s silence will be observed, players will wear black armbands and digital tributes will be displayed throughout the stadium.
For Liverpool, Diogo Jota is not just a name in history — he is, and always will be, their number 20.