Liverpool FC Retires Diogo Jota’s Number 20 Shirt After Heartbreaking Loss: “Forever 20” Emblem to Be Worn for the Season

August 13, 2025 – The football world has been shaken by the heartbreaking passing of Liverpool FC star Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away shortly before his final interview with the club. The Portuguese forward’s death, which occurred unexpectedly, has sent shockwaves through the football community, with fans, teammates, and staff alike struggling to come to terms with the loss of a beloved player. In a moving tribute, Liverpool has announced that Jota’s number 20 shirt will be permanently retired and that a specially made ‘Forever 20’ emblem will be worn by the team for the entirety of the 2025/26 season.

Jota’s tragic passing came as a shock to many, and the club’s decision to retire his number was a clear indication of the impact he had on both Liverpool and the sport as a whole. As a player, Jota was a vital part of Liverpool’s attack, known for his work ethic, skill, and dedication. His number 20 shirt became a symbol of the energy he brought to every match, and his loss has left an indelible mark on the club.

The interview, which had been filmed shortly before his untimely death, revealed a side of Jota that many had not seen before. It offered a glimpse into his thoughts about his career, his love for Liverpool, and his deep connection with both the fans and his teammates.

Diogo Jota’s Final Interview: A Heartfelt Message

In the never-before-seen interview, Jota spoke candidly about his time at Liverpool, reflecting on the club’s journey, his goals, and the passion that drove him to succeed on the pitch. Despite the excitement surrounding his future with the club, there was a somber tone in his words as he spoke of the importance of family, community, and what it meant to represent Liverpool.

“I’ve always felt welcome here, from the first day I arrived,” Jota said in the interview. “Liverpool is a club that lives and breathes football, but it’s also about the people, the fans, and the relationships you build. I’ll always be proud of wearing this shirt, and I’m excited for what’s to come.”

It was clear from his words that Jota was not just focused on his personal achievements but also on the collective success of the team. He spoke highly of his teammates, praising their hard work and unity. “We’re a family, and we fight together,” he said. “The success we’ve had is because we work as one.”

Little did anyone know at the time that these would be some of his final words, as tragedy struck shortly after the interview was filmed. His loss has left a void that is felt deeply within the Liverpool community, with many reflecting on how much he meant to the team and the city.

Liverpool FC’s Tribute: Retiring the Shirt Number

In response to Jota’s tragic passing, Liverpool FC made the historic decision to retire his number 20 shirt, ensuring that no player would ever wear it again. Head coach Arne Slot spoke emotionally about the decision, highlighting Jota’s significant contribution to the club.

“Yeah, it was really important,” Slot told LFC.com. “Diogo was not only a fantastic player but a wonderful person. Retiring his number is a way for us to honor his memory and keep him with us, always. We will always carry him with us in our hearts, in our thoughts, wherever we go.”

The decision to retire Jota’s number is a powerful statement from Liverpool, acknowledging the deep bond the player shared with the club and its supporters. It’s a rare move in modern football, highlighting the unique and lasting impact Jota had in his relatively short time at Anfield.

In addition to retiring his shirt number, the club will wear a specially designed ‘Forever 20’ emblem on their match shirts for the entirety of the 2025/26 season. The emblem, which features a silhouette of Jota in action with a number 20, will serve as a constant reminder of his legacy and the mark he left on the club.

Jota’s Legacy at Liverpool

Jota’s impact at Liverpool was immediate, joining from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020. His versatility, movement, and ability to score crucial goals quickly endeared him to fans. Over the years, he became a key player for Jurgen Klopp, helping the team secure major trophies, including the Premier League and Champions League titles.

Known for his work ethic, Jota was never one to shy away from hard work. Whether starting in the first team or coming off the bench, he always gave his best and helped drive the team forward. His goals, particularly in big matches, were often match-winning, and his energy on the field inspired his teammates to reach new heights.

More than just his performances on the pitch, Jota was a fan favorite due to his humility and connection with the supporters. Whether celebrating goals with his trademark smile or engaging with fans on social media, he was beloved by the Liverpool faithful. His personality was as warm as his style of play, making him a figure that many looked up to both in and out of the locker room.

The Future Without Jota

As Liverpool navigates the difficult road ahead without their star forward, the club and its supporters are finding solace in the knowledge that Jota’s memory will forever be etched in the history of the club. The ‘Forever 20’ emblem will serve as a reminder of everything he brought to the team and the impact he made in such a short amount of time.

In the wake of this loss, Liverpool FC is united in honoring Jota’s legacy and ensuring that his contribution to the team and the sport is never forgotten. As they enter the 2025/26 season, they will do so with the spirit of Diogo Jota guiding them—forever 20.