Quote from Alex bobby on July 4, 2025, 4:14 AM

‘Forever Our Number 20’: Liverpool FC Fans Urge Club to Retire Diogo Jota’s Shirt After Tragic Death

In a moment that has sent shockwaves through the football world, fans and players alike are mourning the tragic death of Liverpool FC and Portugal winger, Diogo Jota. The 27-year-old football star lost his life in a devastating car accident on the Spanish A-52 highway near Sanabria, Zamora province, during the early hours of Thursday morning. His brother, André Silva — also a professional footballer — was in the car and sadly perished as well.

The footballing world was stunned by the news. The initial disbelief has now given way to an outpouring of grief and a growing chorus of fans calling on Liverpool Football Club to permanently retire Jota’s number 20 shirt as a mark of respect for a player who, in just a few years, left a lasting legacy both on and off the pitch.

A Rising Star Gone Too Soon

Diogo Jota’s rise in football was marked by determination, versatility, and a quiet brilliance that quickly won over fans in England. After a successful spell at Wolverhampton Wanderers, Jota joined Liverpool in 2020 and wasted no time in establishing himself as a key player under then-manager Jürgen Klopp. His knack for scoring in big games, intelligent movement, and unrelenting work ethic made him a fan favorite.

In his five years with Liverpool, Jota racked up an impressive 182 goals and 65 assists, playing primarily from the left wing or as a false nine. Beyond the numbers, however, it was his spirit, humility, and team-first mentality that endeared him to teammates and fans alike.

Tragically, Jota was traveling by road to Santander, where he was due to take a ferry back to England for pre-season training. Following recent lung surgery, doctors had advised him against flying — a decision that would tragically lead to his death when the tyre of his Lamborghini Urus SUV blew out while overtaking, causing the vehicle to veer off the road and catch fire.

'Wore Number 20, Won Us Number 20'

Fans have gathered outside Anfield in droves since Thursday morning, laying scarves, flowers, and heartfelt messages to honor the Portuguese forward. On social media, the hashtag #ForeverOurNumber20 has gained traction, with fans urging Liverpool FC to retire the number 20 jersey — a tribute they believe would immortalize Jota’s contribution to the club and symbolize a deep sense of loss.

"Football is the most unimportant thing right now, but I hope Liverpool retire number 20," wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter). "It would feel wrong seeing anyone else wear it after the tragic loss of Diogo Jota — but mainly as a sign of respect and gratitude."

Another post poignantly noted: “He wore number 20. And in the season Liverpool won their 20th league title, we lose him. Maybe… just maybe… the club should retire that number in his honour. Forever 20.”

The symbolic connection between his jersey number and Liverpool’s historic 20th league title — secured just weeks ago — only adds to the emotional weight behind fans’ requests.

A Club in Mourning

Liverpool FC issued a short statement shortly after the news broke, saying they were "devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota," and urged the public to respect the privacy of Jota’s and André’s families during this difficult time.

Jürgen Klopp, who managed Jota for most of his Liverpool career, expressed his heartbreak in an emotional Instagram post. “This is a moment where I struggle,” the German coach admitted. “There must be a bigger purpose (…) But I can’t see it. Diogo was not only a fantastic player, but also a great friend, a loving and caring husband and father. We will miss you so much.”

Jota had only recently married his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso, on June 22. He is survived by her and their three young children — a family now left to navigate an unthinkable loss.

A Legacy Worth Honoring

Liverpool FC has never retired a jersey number in its 133-year history. Not for club legends like Steven Gerrard, Kenny Dalglish, or Ian Rush. Yet, supporters feel that Jota’s sudden, tragic passing presents a unique and emotional case — one that transcends tradition.

Retiring the number 20 shirt would not just honor his memory — it would also symbolize the unity, love, and grief felt by the entire Liverpool family. It would be a gesture rooted in humanity, beyond the usual conventions of the sport.

As tributes continue to pour in from fans, players, and rival clubs around the world, one message rings louder than most:

Forever our number 20.

Final thought

In moments like these, football reminds us that beyond the goals, trophies, and rivalries, it is ultimately about people — their stories, they’re passion, and the connections they forge with millions. Diogo Jota was more than a number on a jersey; he was a symbol of humility, hard work, and quiet brilliance. Whether or not his shirt is retired, his memory will live on — in every fan chant, every shared story, and every tear shed in his honour.

Conclusion

Diogo Jota’s untimely passing is more than just the loss of a brilliant footballer — it is a deeply personal tragedy that has left a profound void in the hearts of Liverpool fans, teammates, and the wider football community. His journey from humble beginnings in Portugal to becoming a key player at one of the world’s biggest clubs was a testament to his talent, resilience, and humility.

As fans continue to mourn, their call to retire the number 20 shirt is not just about statistics or legacy — it's a powerful expression of respect, love, and remembrance. Whether or not Liverpool FC ultimately honours that request, one thing remains certain: Jota’s impact on and off the pitch will never be forgotten.

He may be gone far too soon, but in the words of the supporters who knew and cherished him:

Liverpool fans mourn the tragic death of Diogo Jota and urge the club to retire his number 20 shirt in a heartfelt tribute to the beloved winger’s legacy.