In the world of football, where rivalries and competition often dominate the narrative, moments of genuine human connection shine through as a reminder of the sport’s deeper significance. The recent passing of Diogo Jota, the talented Portuguese forward who left an indelible mark on Liverpool Football Club, has elicited an outpouring of grief from fans, teammates, and the global football community. Among those most profoundly affected is James Milner, the former Liverpool vice-captain, whose emotional tribute to Jota reveals a bond that transcended the pitch. This article delves into Milner’s heartfelt words, the circumstances surrounding Jota’s tragic death, their shared history at Liverpool, and the lasting legacy of a player who was as remarkable a person as he was a footballer.

The Tragic Loss of Diogo Jota

On a fateful day in July 2025, the football world was shaken by the news of Diogo Jota’s untimely death in a car accident in Spain, alongside his brother, André Silva. The 28-year-old, who had recently married his childhood sweetheart, Ruto Cardoso, was traveling back to England for Liverpool’s pre-season preparations when the tragedy occurred. Advised against flying due to recent lung surgery, Jota and his brother opted to drive, a decision that led to a catastrophic accident when one of the wheels on their Lamborghini caught fire, causing the vehicle to veer off the road. The news sent shockwaves through the footballing community, leaving fans, teammates, and clubs in mourning.

Jota’s death was not only a loss to Liverpool FC, where he had become a key figure since joining from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020, but also to the sport as a whole. Known for his clinical finishing, intelligent movement, and infectious personality, Jota was a beloved figure both on and off the field. His passing left behind a grieving family, including his wife and three young children, and a footballing world struggling to come to terms with the loss of a player in his prime.

James Milner’s Emotional Response

James Milner, now playing for Brighton & Hove Albion, was among the first to share his devastation at the news. The veteran midfielder, who spent eight years at Liverpool from 2015 to 2023, had formed a close bond with Jota during their three seasons together at Anfield. In an interview with The Athletic, Milner recounted the moment he learned of Jota’s passing, describing it as one of the toughest days of his life. “Someone asked, ‘Is that true?’ and I didn’t know at that point. I messaged someone at Liverpool to try to find out and… just horrific. Not many tougher days than that,” he said.

The night before the accident, Milner and Jota had exchanged messages, a casual check-in that now carries profound weight. “Nothing major, just checking in and asking each other how things were going,” Milner recalled. The simplicity of their final conversation underscores the genuine friendship they shared, one built on mutual respect, shared experiences, and a surprising connection despite their differences in age and background.

A Touching Tribute: The No. 20 Shirt

In a gesture that has resonated deeply with fans and players alike, Milner chose to honor Jota by switching his squad number at Brighton to No. 20, the same number Jota wore during his time at Liverpool. The opportunity arose when teammate Carlos Baleba decided to change his number, freeing up the No. 20 jersey. For Milner, the decision was immediate and deeply personal. “Carlos wanted to change his number, so the No. 20 became available, and it felt like the right thing for me to do. Every day when I put my kit on, I’ll think of him,” he said.

This tribute is particularly poignant given that Liverpool retired the No. 20 shirt in Jota’s memory, a rare honor that reflects the impact he had on the club. Milner’s decision to wear the number at Brighton ensures that Jota’s legacy will continue to be celebrated on the Premier League stage. “It will be a great honour to wear his number in the Premier League this year,” Milner told Brighton’s social media channels, a sentiment echoed across various reports.

An Unlikely Friendship

Milner and Jota’s friendship was, by Milner’s own admission, an unlikely one. At 39, Milner is a seasoned veteran with a career spanning over two decades, while Jota, at 28, was in the prime of his career, representing a different generation and nationality. “We were only together at Liverpool for three seasons, and you might not have thought we had much in common — different nationalities, very different ages — but we hit it off immediately,” Milner reflected.

What bonded them, Milner suggested, was their shared stubbornness. “Maybe it was because we were both so stubborn. Honestly, people say I’m stubborn, but Jots could give me a run for my money,” he said with a mix of fondness and sorrow. This stubbornness manifested in their competitive spirit on the pitch and their playful banter off it. Milner described Jota as someone who was “always up for a laugh, always winding people up,” a personality that made him a unifying presence in the Liverpool dressing room.

Milner’s admiration for Jota extended beyond his character to his abilities as a player. “As a player, he was incredible. A finisher; so clever. The positions he got into, how he used his body,” Milner told Liverpool FC’s official website. He recalled watching Jota in action and marveling at his skill, often remarking to Brighton teammate Adam Webster, “You don’t realise how good this guy is, this guy is amazing.”

Jota’s Impact at Liverpool

Diogo Jota’s tenure at Liverpool was marked by significant contributions both on and off the pitch. Joining the club in 2020 for a reported £41 million, Jota quickly established himself as a key component of Jürgen Klopp’s attacking trio alongside Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mané (later Roberto Firmino and Luis Díaz). In 182 appearances across all competitions, he scored 65 goals and provided 26 assists, showcasing his versatility and clinical edge.

Jota’s intelligence on the ball, ability to exploit tight spaces, and knack for scoring crucial goals made him a fan favorite. He played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s successes, including the 2022 FA Cup and League Cup triumphs, both of which he won alongside Milner. His ability to adapt to different roles—whether as a central striker, winger, or false nine—made him indispensable to Klopp’s system.

Off the pitch, Jota’s personality endeared him to teammates and fans alike. Milner described him as “one of those you could put in any corner of the dressing room, next to any other player, and he would click with them straight away.” His infectious energy and sense of humor fostered a sense of camaraderie, making him a vital presence in a squad known for its close-knit culture.

The Football Community’s Response

Jota’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the footballing world. Liverpool marked their first competitive match at Anfield since his death with a spine-tingling rendition of “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” led by Claudia Rose Maguire, and a wreath laid by Preston captain Ben Whiteman in front of the traveling supporters.

Former teammates, including Jordan Henderson, Fabinho, and Thiago, joined Milner at Jota’s funeral in Gondomar, Portugal, a testament to the respect and affection he commanded. Manchester United’s Diogo Dalot, who played alongside Jota for the Portuguese national team, described him as a “role model” and spoke of the deep connection they shared. “I felt the whole world felt it, even if they didn’t know him personally,” Dalot said, highlighting Jota’s universal appeal.

Clubs, players, and fans from rival teams also paid their respects, with social media platforms flooded with messages of condolence. Liverpool’s decision to retire the No. 20 shirt was a fitting tribute to a player who had given so much to the club in his short time there.

Milner’s Legacy of Class

James Milner’s gesture of taking the No. 20 shirt is just one example of the class and character he has displayed throughout his career. A Liverpool legend in his own right, Milner played 332 matches for the club, contributing to their Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and League Cup successes. His versatility, work rate, and leadership made him a cornerstone of Klopp’s era, and his move to Brighton in 2023 has seen him continue to defy age with his performances.

Milner’s tribute to Jota has been widely praised by fans and pundits. Social media comments on platforms like Tribuna.com reflect the sentiment, with fans calling him a “class act” and expressing hope that he might one day return to Liverpool in a coaching role. His decision to honor Jota underscores the values of loyalty, respect, and camaraderie that have defined his career.

The Significance of Shirt Numbers

In football, shirt numbers carry deep symbolic meaning, often representing a player’s identity or legacy. Milner’s choice to wear No. 20 is reminiscent of other tributes in the sport, such as Brighton teammate Joel Veltman’s decision to wear No. 34 in honor of his former Ajax teammate Abdelhak Nouri. For Milner, the number is a daily reminder of Jota’s impact, both as a player and as a friend. “Every day when I put my kit on, I’ll think of him,” he said, encapsulating the emotional weight of his gesture.

Jota’s Lasting Legacy

Diogo Jota’s legacy at Liverpool and beyond is one of talent, resilience, and humanity. His journey from a young prospect at Porto to a star at Wolves and then a key figure at Liverpool is a testament to his determination and skill. His tragic passing at such a young age serves as a stark reminder of life’s fragility, but his memory lives on through the tributes of those who knew him best.

For Milner, Jota was more than a teammate—he was a friend whose infectious spirit left an indelible mark. “He was an unbelievable guy, one of my favourite team-mates I’ve had in all my time playing,” Milner said. This sentiment is echoed by countless others who had the privilege of knowing Jota, whether as a teammate, opponent, or fan.

Conclusion

James Milner’s tribute to Diogo Jota is a powerful reminder of the bonds that football can forge. In a sport often defined by its competitive edge, moments like these highlight the human connections that lie at its heart. By wearing the No. 20 shirt, Milner ensures that Jota’s memory will endure, not just at Liverpool but across the Premier League. As the footballing world continues to mourn, Jota’s legacy as a player and a person will live on through the stories, tributes, and memories of those who loved him. For Milner, every match will be an opportunity to honor a friend who was, in his words, “a truly amazing player and an even better guy.”