Liverpool retires Diogo Jota's shirt number after tragic death

On July 3, 2025, the football world mourned the tragic loss of Diogo Jota, a 28-year-old player for Liverpool FC, who died in a car accident in Spain alongside his brother André Silva. The brothers were involved in a serious crash where their car burst into flames after reportedly suffering a tire blowout. Following this horrific event, Liverpool FC has taken significant steps to honor Jota's legacy and contributions to the club. These initiatives include retiring his jersey number, No20, at all levels, affirming the impact he had on the club and its fans. Additionally, there were heartfelt tributes planned for the upcoming pre-season friendly match against Preston North End. These tributes included a rendition of the club's anthem 'You'll Never Walk Alone', a minute of silence, and digital displays celebrating Jota's achievements during his football career. The match served as an opportunity for both fans and players from Liverpool and Preston to come together in remembrance, reflecting on Jota's remarkable career that featured 65 goals in 182 appearances for the club. Many of Jota’s teammates and management attended his funeral in Gondomar, Portugal, showcasing the deep respect and affection that the club had for him. The entire football community has also been touched by this unfortunate loss, as Jota was not only a talented player but also a beloved figure on and off the pitch. This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and how quickly circumstances can change, prompting united tributes and reflections on Jota’s journey as a professional athlete and family man.