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Diogo Jota will wear the number 20 shirt in perpetuity at Liverpool Football Club. After consulting with his wife, Rutte, and family, the club has announced that the number 20 shirt will be retired at all levels, including the women's team and academy, in Diogo's honour and memory, the club said on its official website.
This move not only recognises the Portuguese international's significant contribution to Liverpool's success over the past five years, but also the profound personal impact he has had on his teammates, colleagues and fans, and the strong bonds he has built with them.
"As a club, we were very aware of the feelings of our fans and shared them. It was extremely important to involve Diogo's wife, Ruta, and his family in the decision-making process and ensure that they were the first to know about our intentions," said FSG's director of football, Michael Edwards.
He also added:
"I believe this is the first time in Liverpool's history that this honour has been bestowed on an individual. It is a unique tribute to an extremely distinguished man. By retiring this number, we are making it eternal and therefore unforgettable. Diogo joined us in 2020, winning the Premier League title for us, wearing the number 20. And he wore that number with honour, dignity and love."
Recall that Diogo Jota moved to Liverpool in 2020 from Wolverhampton Wanderers for 44.7 million euros. During his five seasons with the Reds, the Portuguese played 182 matches, scored 65 goals and provided 23 assists. With the club, he won the English Premier League, the FA Cup and twice the English League Cup. The footballer, along with his brother André, died in a car accident in northern Spain.