Liverpool have unveiled images of a new permanent memorial to Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva at Anfield following the brothers’ tragic deaths last July.
Diogo Jota and Silva were killed in a car crash as the Portugal international travelled back to Merseyside for pre-season training, just days after marrying long-term partner Rute Cardoso.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Anfield became a place of remembrance as supporters left scarves, flags and flowers outside the stadium. Fans have also continued to honour Jota during matches, chanting his name in the 20th minute of every game.
Liverpool retired Jota’s No.20 shirt across all levels of the club last season.
The new sculpture, titled ‘Forever 20’, was described by Liverpool as a tribute that “celebrates their lives, their bond, and the love and respect felt by family, teammates and supporters across the world.”
The club continued in a statement: “At its centre is a flowing heart sculpture, in acknowledgement of Diogo’s iconic goal celebration, while viewed from different angles it also reveals the numbers 20 and 30, which adorned the back of the brothers’ playing shirts.
“It will also feature the lyrics to Jota’s famous song so beloved by Liverpool fans, and one they still sing at every game on the 20th minute.
“The club will provide further updates on when the sculpture will be officially unveiled but can confirm it will be positioned on 97 Avenue, where thousands of physical tributes – including flowers, scarves, works of art, cards, banners and opposition jerseys – were placed to create a poignant tribute area in the immediate aftermath of their loss.
“It will stand on a Granby Rock-faced stone plinth, laser-engraved with a dedication to both brothers, and incorporated into the plinth itself are many of the physical tributes that were left at Anfield. This unique recycling process ensures the voices and emotions shared by fans at the time become a permanent and enduring part of this memorial.
“It will also include personal references that reflect Diogo’s life beyond football, including a games controller detail resting on the plinth, and will serve as a permanent symbol of love, unity and remembrance, and a place where everyone can reflect, remember and pay their respects.”
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