James Milner chose to switch Brighton’s 20th-place shirt to the new season in a tribute to his former Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota, who died tragically last month.
The 28-year-old Portuguese International team died in a car accident with his brother Andre Silva in June, just weeks after helping Liverpool win the Premier League title.
In response to his death, Liverpool confirmed that Jota’s signature No. 20 shirt (wrapped in his five-year spell at Anfield) would retire permanently.
Three of the seasons were spent with Milner before the experienced British midfielder headed to Brighton in 2023.
Before the 2025-26 campaign, Brighton teammate Carlos Baleba decided to wear a No. 17 shirt, available for 20 pieces.
Milner, who had previously reached sixth place on the South Coast, saw it as an opportunity to make respect.
“Once I heard Carlos wants to change his number and 20 of 20, I want to do this to respect and pay tribute to Diogo Jota,” Milner said in a message posted on Brighton’s X.
“He is a great player and I’m lucky to play with him.
“It would be a great honor to wear his number in the Premier League this year.”
The veteran midfielder’s contract was renewed by Brighton in June and is now surpassing his 40th birthday, and is one of several former teammates who traveled to Portugal to attend Jota’s funeral in July.
Jota’s death left a lasting mark in the football world, prompting multiple tributes. #
Liverpool have revealed plans to create a memorial forward statue in Anfield, while Wolves have introduced him to their Hall of Fame.
Clubs and fans across the country also pay tribute to the moments of silence and commemoration of banners.
