
1. Introduction: Remembering Diogo Jota
When Liverpool fans chant ” than Figo,” hold up the aisle of No. 20, or don a tribute tee, they honor more than a footballer—they celebrate a beloved symbol of passion, perseverance, and unity. Diogo Jota (1996–2025), known simply as “Jota,” remains etched in the hearts of fans worldwide. This article explores his cherished No. 20, the tributes that followed, the enduring chants, and the commemorative shirts that keep his memory alive.
2. The Significance of the Number 20
Diogo Jota wore the 20 shirt for Liverpool, and that number became iconic. Following the tragic car crash that claimed his life and that of his brother André Silva on 3 July 2025, Liverpool retired the No. 20 jersey across all levels of the club.
This rare gesture signified not only respect for his talent but also recognition of his emotional significance to the club and supporters. The “Forever 20” emblem appeared on kits throughout the season.
3. Moving Tributes: Moments of Collective Mourning
Community Shield Tribute
Before the 2025/26 Community Shield, Liverpool organized a memorial at Wembley, including a minute’s silence, wreath-laying, and fans wearing “Forever 20” shirts and scarves. Unfortunately, the tribute was disrupted by some Crystal Palace fans, prompting Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk to voice disappointment. Diogo Jota tribute.
Season Opener at Anfield
The Premier League opener against Bournemouth at Anfield was marked by raw emotion:
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A minute’s silence, fans holding “DJ 20” and “AS 30” signs, visible grief from players.
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“You’ll Never Walk Alone” echoed across the stadium.
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At 20 minutes and 20 seconds into the match, supporters let out a lion-hearted stadium-wide cheer.
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The No. 20 shirt was formally retired, and “Forever 20” emblems appeared on the kits.
Fans also performed a stirring chant to the melody of “Bad Moon Rising,” dedicated to Jota’s memory.
Early Season Matches & Global Tributes
In Liverpool’s friendly against Preston North End, tributes continued:
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A wreath-laying ceremony and minute’s silence.
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Darwin Núñez and Cody Gakpo honored Jota by replicating his signature video-game style celebration.
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A chant peaked intentionally in the 20th minute.
Elsewhere, murals in Liverpool and Wolverhampton, interactive tributes, and the announcement of a grassroots football program in Jota’s name spread his legacy.
4. The Song Lyrics: “Better Than Figo” Chant
One of the most iconic expressions of support for Jota is the chant set to “Bad Moon Rising”:
Oh, he wears the number 20,
He will take us to victory,
And when he’s running down the left wing,
He’ll cut inside and score for LFC.
He’s a lad from Portugal,
Better than Figo don’t you know,
Oh, his name is Diogo!
This chant is simple, catchy, and emotionally resonant. Fan guides explain not only the lyrics, but also how to use clap cues, tempo, and timing for matchday renditions. Diogo Jota tribute.
5. Jota’s Signature Celebration: Video Game Tribute
Long before tributes, Jota’s trademark celebration—sitting cross-legged and mimicking holding a gaming controller—became iconic. This gesture, born from his love for video games and FIFA, was itself a tribute to his esports passion.
Following his passing, players like Darwin Núñez and Cody Gakpo adopted the gesture after scoring, perpetuating both the skill and the joy he carried. Diogo Jota tribute.
6. Tribute Shirts: Wearing the Legacy
To keep his memory tangible, several tribute shirts surfaced:
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Diet apparel: “Oh His Name is Diogo” T-shirt featuring chant lyrics and high-quality cotton—ideal for matchdays or fandom.
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In Memory Of Diogo Jota 1996-2025 shirt: Black design with portrait and dates — a solemn, commemorative piece.
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Thank You For The Memories limited edition T-shirt and hoodies: Collector-style gear celebrating his career.
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Commemorative collage shirt: Vibrant front print of iconic moments and No. 20, blank back for respectful contrast.
These items serve as heartfelt reminders and are worn by fans to show solidarity and remembrance.
7. Summary of Key Tributes
Aspect | Highlight |
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Number 20 | Officially retired by Liverpool; “Forever 20” emblem appears on kits. |
Stadium Tributes | Anfield opener, Community Shield, friendly vs. Preston all featured silence, chants, symbols. |
Chant Lyrics | “Oh, he wears the number 20…” — iconic chant to “Bad Moon Rising.” |
Signature Celebration | Video-game controller gesture, replicated posthumously by teammates. |
Tribute Shirts | Designs include lyrics, portraits, memorial dates, “Thank You” messages. |
8. Reflection: The Enduring Legacy of Diogo Jota
Diogo Jota’s story transcends sport. His rise from Porto to Anfield, his flair, work ethic, and joyous celebrations earned him a place in football hearts. When tragedy struck, the outpouring—from chants, tributes, and retired shirt numbers to charity programs and murals—showed his influence entwined with identity.
Liverpool retiring No. 20, players reenacting celebrations, and fans adopting tribute shirts blend grief with celebration. His image now lives on in glyphs of unity: “Forever 20,” the chorus of “Better Than Figo,” and a shirt worn with pride—not just for a name, but for shared emotion and memory. Diogo Jota tribute.
FAQs
Q1: Why was Diogo Jota’s No. 20 shirt retired?
Liverpool retired his No. 20 jersey across all levels to honor his legacy and exceptional impact, following his passing in July 2025.
Q2: What is the “Better Than Figo” chant?
A popular Liverpool chant praising Jota, set to the tune of “Bad Moon Rising.” Lyrics celebrate his number, style, and Portuguese heritage.
Q3: What is Jota’s signature celebration?
He often sat cross-legged, miming a video-game controller—a nod to his passion for gaming—later replicated in tribute by teammates like Núñez.
Q4: What tributes were held at Anfield?
At the Premier League opener vs. Bournemouth, there was a minute’s silence, banners (“DJ 20,” “AS 30”), “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” and a cheer at 20 min. 20 sec, plus the No. 20 retirement and “Forever 20” patch.
Q5: Are there official tribute shirts available?
Yes—non-official but popular options include shirts with lyrics, portraits with “1996-2025,” “Thank You For The Memories,” and commemorative collage designs, all honoring his memory.
Q6: Have any community or club initiatives been launched in his name?
Liverpool plans a grassroots football program in Jota’s memory, and murals and memorials have appeared in Liverpool and Wolverhampton.
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