Liverpool fans are urging the club to take an unprecedented step following the tragic death of Diogo Jota.
The 28-year-old forward died alongside his brother, Andre Silva, in a car crash on Thursday in Zamora, Spain. The vehicle they were in caught fire, which then spread to nearby vegetation, according to the Zamora Provincial Council. Silva, 26, was also a professional footballer, playing for Portuguese second-division team Penafiel.
A statement from the Council confirmed: “Two young people die in an accident on the A-52 (Palacios de Sanabria).” Emergency services from the Rionegro del Puente Fire Station responded to the scene. “The vehicle caught fire, and the flames spread to the vegetation. They were 28 and 26 years old. RIP.”
Jota’s death came just two weeks after he married his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso.
Tributes have poured in from across the football community, including messages from Porto, Wolves, and Liverpool. In a statement, Liverpool said:
“Liverpool Football Club are devastated by the tragic passing of Diogo Jota. The club has been informed that the 28-year-old passed away in a road traffic accident in Spain alongside his brother, Andre. At this time, we ask that the privacy of their family, friends, teammates, and staff be respected. The club will offer them full support.”
Former club captain Jamie Carragher also expressed his sorrow on X, writing:
“Devastating news about Diogo Jota & his brother Andre this morning. Thoughts are with all of their family & friends, especially his wife Rute & their three lovely kids.”
In response, many Liverpool supporters have called for the club to honor Jota by retiring his No. 20 shirt — a move the club has never made before.
One fan wrote: “Retire his number… no one else should wear the number 20. Awful, awful news.”
Another said: “Retiring his No. 20 would be a beautiful tribute. Jota was one of the most dangerous players off the bench.”
A third added: “I’ll never forget you. Rest easy, number 20. You’ll never walk alone.”
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