Portugese forward, Diogo Jota, will forever be Liverpool Football Club’s number 20.
It was the number Jota wore with pride and distinction, helping the Reds to many victories in the process.
Following consultation with his wife, Rute, alongside the family, Liverpool FC can announce the squad number will be retired in honour and memory of Diogo across all levels, encompassing LFC Women and Academy.
The decision is in recognition of Jota’s inestimable contribution made to the Reds’ on-pitch successes over the last five (5) years, and the deep personal impact he had on his teammates, colleagues and supporters and the eternal connections he built with them.
According to the Club’s official website, Michael Edwards, Chief Executive of Football, said: “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.”
In a joint statement, Billy Hogan, John Henry, Tom Werner and Mike Gordon, said: “The fact that in the long and storied history of our club this honour has never previously been bestowed shows the significance of Diogo to Liverpool Football Club.
“His memory and contribution will be immortalised by his association with the number 20.
“Our love goes to Rute, his three beautiful children and his family as they continue to grieve the loss of Diogo and André.”
Photo: Liverpool FC
