Liverpool retires No. 20 shirt in memory of Diogo Jota

(NLDO) – A week after Diogo Jota and his brother died in a car accident, Liverpool decided to permanently retire the Portuguese midfielder's number 20 shirt.

Liverpool FC have decided to permanently retire the number 20 shirt in memory of striker Diogo Jota, who died in a car accident with his brother André Silva last week in Spain.

For Diogo Jota, Liverpool make historic exception

Official announcement on Liverpool homepage

This is the first time in Liverpool's history that they have paid such a tribute to a player. According to the announcement from the club, the number 20 shirt will no longer be used for the men's team, the women's team as well as the youth ranks of the academy.

The decision to retire the number 20 shirt was made by Liverpool's board of directors after consulting with Jota's wife - Rute Cardoso - and his parents, as well as suggestions from many fans.

Jota's family were at Anfield to witness the outpouring of love from fans for Jota, with bouquets of flowers and letters of gratitude being left outside Anfield Stadium.

Flowers, shirts and scarves were left outside Anfield in memory of Diogo Jota

The family were joined by the entire Liverpool squad, who made their first public appearance since the tragic accident. Jota died just 11 days after his wedding to his long-term girlfriend and leaves behind three young children.

The Jota brothers are believed to be on their way to Santander port to return to the UK by ferry, as Jota has recently undergone lung surgery and has been advised not to travel by plane.

Teammates remember the unfortunate player

Organize many activities to commemorate Diogo Jota

Liverpool's first match since the tragedy will be at Deepdale Stadium against Preston on 13 July, where both teams will hold a series of memorial activities: the traditional song "You'll Never Walk Alone" will be played before kick-off, along with a minute's silence and black armbands worn by both teams in memory of Jota and his ill-fated brother.

The image of Diogo Jota will remain forever in the memories of Liverpool fans

Retiring the No. 20 shirt is not only a mark of respect for a great player, but also a reflection of the special place Diogo Jota holds in Liverpool's hearts – as an icon both on and off the pitch.

Liverpool also terminated the contract to pay the entire salary of nearly 20 million pounds in 3 years of Diogo Jota to his wife and children.

Source: https://nld.com.vn/liverpool-trèo-vinh-vien-ao-so-20-de-tuong-nho-diogo-jota-1962507120840067.htm