James Milner has chosen to change to Brighton’s No. 20 shirt for the brand new season as a private tribute to his former Liverpool team-mate Diogo Jota, who tragically handed away final month.
The 28‑yr‑previous Portugal worldwide died in a automotive accident in June alongside his brother, Andre Silva, only some weeks after serving to Liverpool safe the Premier League title.
In response to his loss of life, Liverpool confirmed that Jota’s iconic No. 20 shirt – worn all through his 5‑yr spell at Anfield – can be retired completely.
Three of these seasons had been spent with Milner earlier than the skilled English midfielder departed for Brighton in 2023.
Ahead of the 2025-26 marketing campaign, Brighton team-mate Carlos Baleba determined to take the No. 17 shirt, leaving 20 obtainable.
Milner, who has beforehand worn the No. 6 since arriving on the south coast, noticed it as an opportunity to make a gesture of respect.
“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 pay tribute to Diogo Jota,” Milner stated in a message posted on Brighton’s X.
“He was a tremendous participant who I used to be lucky to play with and an ideal good friend as effectively.
“It will be a great honour to wear his number in the Premier League this year.”
The veteran midfielder, whose contract was renewed by Brighton in June and now runs past his fortieth birthday, was one in all a number of former team-mates who travelled to Portugal in July to attend Jota’s funeral.
Jota’s passing has left an enduring mark on the soccer world, prompting a number of tributes. #
Liverpool have already revealed plans to erect a memorial statue of the ahead at Anfield, whereas Wolves have inducted him into their Hall of Fame.
Clubs and followers throughout the nation have additionally paid their respects with moments of silence and commemorative banners.
