James Milner has chosen to switch to Brighton’s No. 20 shirt for the new season as a personal tribute to his former Liverpool team-mate Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away last month.
The 28‑year‑old Portugal international died in a car accident in June alongside his brother, Andre Silva, only a few weeks after helping Liverpool secure the Premier League title.
In response to his death, Liverpool confirmed that Jota’s iconic No. 20 shirt – worn throughout his five‑year spell at Anfield – would be retired permanently.
Three of those seasons were spent with Milner before the experienced English midfielder departed for Brighton in 2023.
Ahead of the 2025-26 campaign, Brighton team-mate Carlos Baleba decided to take the No. 17 shirt, leaving 20 available.
Milner, who has previously worn the No. 6 since arriving on the south coast, saw it as a chance 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 said in a message posted on Brighton’s X.
“He was an amazing player who I was fortunate to play with and a great friend as well.
“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 beyond his 40th birthday, was one of several former team-mates who travelled to Portugal in July to attend Jota’s funeral.
Jota’s passing has left a lasting mark on the football world, prompting multiple tributes. #
Liverpool have already revealed plans to erect a memorial statue of the forward at Anfield, while Wolves have inducted him into their Hall of Fame.
Clubs and fans across the country have also paid their respects with moments of silence and commemorative banners.
