Liverpool retiring Diogo Jota's number after star's tragic death in car crash
The club consulted Jota's wife and family in the decision to retire the number, which he wore throughout his five years with the club.
The retirement extends across all levels of the club, including LFC Women and Academy.
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Diogo Jota celebrates after winning the Premier League with Liverpool on April 27.
REUTERS
The recognition, the club said, is in honor of Jota's contributions both on the field and his 'profound personal impact' on teammates, colleagues and supporters.
'As a club, we were all acutely aware of the sentiment of our supporters — and we felt exactly the same way,' said Michael Edwards, the CEO of Football for Fenway Sports Group, which owns Liverpool.
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'I believe this is the first time in Liverpool Football Club's history that such an honour has been bestowed upon an individual. Therefore, we can say this is a unique tribute to a uniquely wonderful person.
'By retiring this squad number, we are making it eternal — and therefore never to be forgotten.'
The tragic car crash took place near Zamora in northwest Spain.
A fan adds a message to a memorial wall for former Liverpool player Diogo Jota on July 9.
REUTERS
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Jota and Silva, who was also a professional soccer player, had a joint funeral last week in their native country of Portugal.
Hundreds — a mix of locals, friends, family and former teammates — attended the funeral.
Liverpool is set to play its first match since Jota's death on Sunday, a friendly against Preston North End at Preston's Deepdale Stadium.
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Jota and Silva will be commemorated at the match with the playing of 'You'll Never Walk Alone' before kick-off.
A minute of silence will also be observed, and players from both teams will wear black arm bands.
'What Jota meant — and continues to mean — to teammates, colleagues and supporters has been evident in the tributes that have followed since he and his brother, André, passed away,' Liverpool's statement continued. 'He was not only an outstanding footballer, he was also an outstanding human being.'
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