In a profound gesture of mourning and respect, Liverpool FC has confirmed plans to immortalise the number 20 shirt worn by Diogo Jota. Following the devastating news of the player’s death.
On Thursday, hours after the player’s death in a car crash, the club released a statement expressing immense grief and sorrow, acknowledging the immense loss that extends beyond the pitch.
The announcement comes amidst what the club describes as a ‘devastating tragedy’, which also claimed the life of Jota’s brother, Andre Silva.
Both are being mourned equally by the club. “There is nothing that we can say at this moment to ease the pain of such a devastating tragedy. We all feel utterly bereft right now”, the statement read.
Liverpool emphasised that its immediate priority is to offer unwavering support to Jota’s wife, Rute, their three young children, his parents, and his wider family as they confront ‘an unimaginable loss.’
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The club also appealed for privacy for the family during this profoundly difficult time.
The loss has deeply affected the entire Liverpool family, with teammates, friends, and colleagues consumed by shock and sorrow.
The club recognised that this grief is shared across its global fanbase, the Portuguese national team, Jota’s former clubs and teammates, and the broader football community, highlighting that ‘This is a tragedy that transcends Liverpool Football Club.’
In the coming days, Liverpool Football Club stated its commitment to honouring its ‘beloved number 20’ with the respect and affection he profoundly deserved.
The club intends to make these tributes meaningful and inclusive for its supporters, to whom Jota meant so much.
Liverpool expressed a love ‘filled with deep sorrow and pain’, acknowledging the loss of ‘someone truly irreplaceable.’
