Liverpool honored Diogo Jota in the opening match of the 2025/26 Premier League season by permanently retiring his number 20 and leaving an empty locker in the Anfield dressing room. The gesture, shown before the 4–2 victory over Bournemouth, was more than symbolic: it underlined that the Portuguese striker’s legacy and spirit remain part of the club’s identity even after his tragic death in July 2025. This historic decision marked the first time Liverpool withdrew a shirt number across all teams, ensuring that “Forever 20” becomes a lasting part of Anfield’s story, reports G.Business.
The tragedy that claimed Jota’s life occurred on 3 July 2025 on the A-52 motorway near Cernadilla, in the Spanish province of Zamora. Traveling with his brother André Silva in a rented Lamborghini Huracán, the vehicle suffered a tire blowout during an overtaking maneuver. It veered off the road and burst into flames, killing both brothers instantly. Jota was 28 years old. Just weeks earlier, he had married his long-term partner, Rute Cardoso, with whom he had three children. The sudden loss resonated far beyond Merseyside, shaking the entire football world.
Liverpool responded with an unprecedented tribute. The club officially announced the retirement of the No. 20 jersey, Jota’s number since joining the Reds in 2020. It is the first time in the club’s history that a number has been permanently withdrawn across all teams—men’s, women’s, and academy squads. The club also introduced the “Forever 20” emblem, worn on players’ shirts for the entire season, ensuring that Jota’s memory is honored in every match.
The tributes extended beyond symbolic gestures. Before the match against Bournemouth, players and coaching staff observed a minute of silence, answered by applause from the stands. In the 20th minute of every game, supporters now rise to pay homage, singing “You’ll Never Walk Alone” and displaying banners bearing his name. Across the Premier League, black armbands and commemorative ceremonies underlined how deeply his death affected the football community.
The solidarity went further. Liverpool committed to fulfilling Jota’s contract, valid until 2027, ensuring his family receives full financial support. Chelsea, traditionally a rival, pledged part of its Club World Cup bonus to his widow and children. FIFA, UEFA, and leading players such as Cristiano Ronaldo offered public condolences, underlining how far Jota’s influence reached.
On the pitch, Jota had been more than a reliable goalscorer. For Liverpool, he played 131 matches, scored 51 goals, and lifted both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup. For Portugal, he earned 39 caps and scored 14 goals, representing his country at the European Championship and the UEFA Nations League. He was valued not only for his tactical intelligence and pressing ability, but also for his humility, commitment, and team-first mentality.
Dossier: Who was Diogo Jota
Full name: Diogo José Teixeira da Silva
Born: 4 December 1996, Porto, Portugal
Clubs: Paços de Ferreira (2014–2016), Atlético Madrid (2016–2017), FC Porto (loan, 2016–2017), Wolverhampton Wanderers (2017–2020), Liverpool (2020–2025)
Liverpool record: 131 matches, 51 goals
Portugal record: 39 caps, 14 goals
Honours: FA Cup, Carabao Cup, UEFA Nations League (with Portugal)
Private life: Married Rute Cardoso in June 2025, father of three children, known for his passion for eSports (managed his own FIFA team)
Died: 3 July 2025, car accident in Zamora, Spain
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