Liverpool Retires Diogo Jota’s Number 20 Shirt After Tragic Death in Car Crash
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Why Is Liverpool Retiring Diogo Jota’s Number 20 Shirt?
Liverpool Football Club has officially retired the number 20 jersey across all levels of the club to honour the late Diogo Jota. The decision follows the tragic death of the Portuguese forward and his brother, André Silva, in a devastating car crash earlier this month. The club released a statement confirming the move, saying the shirt will be retired “in honour and memory of Diogo.”
This heartfelt tribute will span across Liverpool’s senior team, LFC Women, and the Academy. “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,” read the official announcement.
Liverpool’s Chief Executive Michael Edwards added, “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.”
How Will Liverpool Honor Diogo Jota Before Their Next Match?
Liverpool is set to return to action for the first time since the tragedy with a pre-season friendly against English Championship side Preston on Sunday. The club has planned several emotional tributes before kick-off at 1400 GMT. These include a special rendition of the club’s iconic anthem “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” a wreath laid by Preston in front of Liverpool fans, and a minute of silence.
Digital memorials will be shown on the stadium’s big screen and pitchside advertising boards. Players from both teams will wear black armbands in memory of Jota.
Who Was Diogo Jota and What Happened?
Jota, a father of three, had recently married his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso, just 11 days before the fatal accident. He and his brother were traveling in a Lamborghini that veered off the road and caught fire in northern Spain, resulting in both their deaths.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot, team captain Virgil van Dijk, and several first-team players were among those who attended Jota’s funeral last Saturday, highlighting the impact he had both on and off the pitch.
By Yockshard Enyendi
