James Milner, 39, of Brighton & Hove Albion, has chosen to wear the number 20 shirt for the upcoming 2025-26 Premier League season as a heartfelt tribute to his late former Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota, who died in a car crash in Spain on July 3, 2025, alongside his brother André Silva. Milner and Jota played together 71 times for Liverpool, winning the FA Cup and Carabao Cup in 2022.
Milner claimed that when Brighton Teammate Carlos Baleba switched from number 20 to 17, he grasped the opportunity:
“Once I heard Carlos was looking to change his number and 20 was available, I wanted to do it as a mark of respect and obviously pay tribute to Diogo Jota.”
“He was an amazing player … a great friend. It will be a great honour to wear his number in the Premier League this year.”
Liverpool Retire the Number 20 Shirt Permanently
Following negotiations with Jota’s family, Liverpool FC decided to take out the No. 20 shirt from all club teams, including the first team, women’s, and academy. This is the only such retirement in the club’s history, highlighting his enormous effect both on and off the field.
Liverpool and other teams throughout Europe have honored Jota in a variety of ways. Murals and memorial mosaics saying “Forever 20” have been created in Liverpool and Wolverhampton, and proceeds from fan items containing his name go towards a junior football program in his memory.
Milner’s Legacy & Personal Motives
Milner, who joined Brighton from Liverpool in 2023, just signed a one-year deal, guaranteeing he plays into his 40s—just 15 Premier League matches away from shattering Gareth Barry’s all-time record.
Milner’s choice, which comes 638 Premier League games into a stellar career, demonstrates how highly Jota was regarded. In retirement of No. 20 by Liverpool, Milner’s gesture stands as a bridge between clubs.
Why Milner’s Gesture Resonates Beyond Football
Emotional Authenticity
Milner’s tribute is not symbolic; it is highly personal. He attended Jota’s wake and funeral, speaking fondly of him as more than a teammate: a friend.
Respect for Legacy.
Milner commemorates Jota’s legacy by wearing his former number in the Premier League, ensuring that the number lives on symbolically even if Liverpool has formally retired it.
Symbolic Leadership
As Brighton’s senior player, Milner’s selection gives emotional leadership at a club noted for squad unity and youth development. It conveys a message of empathy and acknowledges the game’s human side.
What It Means for the Premier League Season
Milner aims to break Gareth Barry’s record of 653 Premier League appearances, and wearing No. 20 adds symbolic meaning to each experience.
Global Awareness: Brighton’s gesture draws international attention to Jota’s legacy and Liverpool’s continuous tributes.
Football as Brotherhood: Milner’s pick emphasizes football’s emotional links and exemplifies how sports can incorporate personal memories into everyday competition.
Final Word
Brighton midfielder James Milner’s switch to the number 20 shirt for the 2025-26 season is more than just a number change; it’s a heartfelt tribute to Diogo Jota, whose life and career were cut cruelly short. With Liverpool retiring the shirt forever and Milner coming up to wear it in his place, the gesture connects clubs, honors legacy, and shows football’s eternal human connections.
As Milner enters a milestone season in his career, fans in England and abroad will witness more than just a senior midfielder on the field—they will see a legacy of friendship, respect, and remembrance.