In a poignant gesture that has touched the hearts of football fans worldwide, veteran midfielder James Milner has announced he will don the number 20 shirt for Brighton & Hove Albion in the 2025/26 Premier League season. This decision comes as a tribute to his former Liverpool teammate, Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away in a car accident last month at the age of 28. Jota’s untimely death, alongside his younger brother Andre Silva, has left an indelible mark on the football community, especially following Liverpool’s triumphant Premier League title win just weeks prior.

The news of Jota’s passing sent shockwaves through the sport. The Portuguese forward, known for his clinical finishing and relentless work ethic, had been a key figure in Liverpool’s success since joining from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020. Over five seasons at Anfield, Jota wore the number 20 jersey with distinction, contributing crucial goals in domestic and European competitions. His partnership with stars like Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane (in earlier years) helped propel the Reds to multiple trophies, including the 2019/20 Premier League title, the 2021/22 FA Cup, and the recent 2024/25 league crown. Jota’s final season was particularly memorable, as he scored vital goals in the run-in, securing Liverpool’s first title in five years amid fierce competition from Manchester City and Arsenal.

Milner, who shared the pitch with Jota for three of those seasons between 2020 and 2023, developed a close bond with the younger player. The pair’s overlapping time at Liverpool coincided with some of the club’s most intense campaigns, including the dramatic 2021/22 quadruple chase. Milner, ever the consummate professional, often praised Jota’s versatility and humility in interviews. “Diogo was the kind of player who could change a game in an instant,” Milner reflected in a past post-match discussion. Their camaraderie extended beyond the field, with Milner mentoring the Portuguese international during his adaptation to life at one of England’s biggest clubs.

The accident that claimed Jota’s life occurred on a rainy evening in northern Portugal, where he was vacationing with family after the season’s end. Reports indicate that Jota and his brother Andre, a promising footballer in his own right playing for Real Sociedad, were en route to a family gathering when their vehicle collided with another. Emergency services arrived swiftly, but both brothers were pronounced dead at the scene. The football world mourned immediately, with tributes pouring in from clubs, players, and fans. Liverpool manager Arne Slot described Jota as “a warrior on the pitch and a gentleman off it,” while Portugal national team coach Roberto Martinez highlighted his contributions to the Seleção, where he earned over 30 caps.

In response to the tragedy, Liverpool Football Club made the solemn decision to retire the number 20 jersey permanently. This move, announced shortly after the funeral in July 2025, mirrors historic retirements like West Ham’s number 6 for Bobby Moore or Napoli’s number 10 for Diego Maradona. “Diogo gave everything for this club, and retiring his number is the least we can do to honor his legacy,” read a statement from Liverpool’s board. The ceremony to retire the shirt is scheduled for the opening home game of the 2025/26 season against Manchester United, where a minute’s silence and a special mosaic in the stands are planned.

Meanwhile, at Brighton, the number 20 became available following a squad reshuffle. Young midfielder Carlos Baleba, who had worn it in the previous campaign, opted to switch to number 17 ahead of the new season, citing personal reasons and a desire for a fresh start under manager Fabian Hürzeler. Milner, who had been wearing number 6 since joining Brighton in 2023, seized the opportunity to request the change. Now 39 and set to turn 40 in January 2026, Milner recently signed a one-year contract extension, underscoring his enduring fitness and leadership qualities. His move to Brighton after leaving Liverpool marked a new chapter, where he has become a mentor to the club’s younger talents while maintaining his reputation as one of the Premier League’s most reliable performers.

Milner shared his motivations in an emotional post on Brighton’s official social media channels. “As soon as I heard that number 20 was free, I knew I had to take it as a tribute to Jota,” he wrote. “He was an incredible player I was fortunate to play alongside and a close friend. Wearing the number 20 in the Premier League this season will be a huge honor for me.” The post, accompanied by a photo of Milner and Jota celebrating a goal together at Anfield, quickly garnered thousands of likes and shares. Fans from both Liverpool and Brighton flooded the comments with messages of support, many noting how the gesture exemplifies Milner’s character.

Milner’s presence at Jota’s funeral in Porto last month further highlighted his commitment to honoring his friend. Joined by other Liverpool alumni like Jordan Henderson and Roberto Firmino, Milner delivered a heartfelt eulogy, speaking of Jota’s infectious energy and family values. “Diogo lived for his loved ones and the game,” he said during the service. “We’ll carry his spirit with us always.”

The reaction to Milner’s jersey switch has been overwhelmingly positive, resonating far beyond the confines of English football. Social media platforms buzzed with hashtags like #MilnerTribute and #RIPJota, as supporters shared stories of Jota’s impact. Former teammate Virgil van Dijk commented, “Class act, Milly. Diogo would be proud.” Even rival fans, such as those from Everton and Manchester City, expressed admiration, proving that some moments in sport transcend club loyalties.

This act of remembrance underscores Milner’s status as a model leader in football. Throughout his illustrious career—spanning Leeds United, Newcastle, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool, and now Brighton—Milner has amassed over 600 Premier League appearances, three titles, and a Champions League triumph. Yet, it’s his off-field integrity that often shines brightest. From charity work to advocating for player welfare, Milner embodies the values that make football more than just a game.

As the 2025/26 season kicks off, Milner’s number 20 will serve as a constant reminder of Jota’s brilliance and the fragility of life. For Brighton fans, it adds an emotional layer to their campaign, while Liverpool supporters find solace in knowing Jota’s memory lives on. In a sport often dominated by headlines of transfers and tactics, this story reminds us of the human element—the bonds forged, the losses endured, and the tributes that endure.