Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder James Milner has made a heartfelt gesture by switching his shirt number to No. 20 for the 2025-26 Premier League season, a tribute to his former Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away in a car crash on July 3, 2025, alongside his brother Andre Silva. The 28-year-old Portuguese forward, who helped Liverpool clinch the Premier League title just weeks before his death, wore No. 20 during his five seasons at Anfield, a number the club has since retired. Milner, who played alongside Jota from 2020 to 2023, called him an “amazing player and great friend,” seizing the opportunity to take the number when teammate Carlos Baleba switched to No. 17. Announced on August 1, 2025, Milner’s decision has resonated deeply with fans and the football community.[](https://www.the-independent.com/sport/football/james-milner-diogo-jota-number-20-liverpool-brighton-b2800597.html)
Milner, now 39 and in his third season with Brighton after leaving Liverpool in 2023, shared his reasoning in a statement to the club, saying, “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.” The veteran midfielder, who has 638 Premier League appearances and needs just 16 more to surpass Gareth Barry’s record, described Jota’s exceptional finishing and infectious personality, recalling their fun, competitive banter in the dressing room. Milner attended Jota’s funeral in Porto alongside former Liverpool players Fabinho, Jordan Henderson, and Thiago, underscoring the depth of their bond.[](https://www.thisisanfield.com/2025/08/james-milner-changes-shirt-number-in-honour-of-diogo-jota/)
Jota’s impact at Liverpool was profound, with 56 goals in 197 appearances, including key contributions to the 2022 FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and the 2025 Premier League title. His sudden loss sent shockwaves through the football world, prompting Liverpool to plan a memorial sculpture at Anfield and induct Jota into Wolves’ Hall of Fame for his earlier contributions. Milner’s decision to wear No. 20, previously his number at Manchester City, carries added weight as a personal tribute, reflecting the respect Jota commanded. Brighton’s squad, including new signings like Neil El Aynaoui, now carries this emotional narrative into the new season under head coach Fabian Hurzeler.
As Brighton prepares for their Premier League opener against Arsenal on August 16, 2025, Milner’s gesture stands as a poignant reminder of Jota’s legacy. The midfielder’s choice to honor his friend, despite having worn No. 6 at Brighton, highlights his character and the enduring camaraderie forged at Liverpool. With the football world still mourning Jota, Milner’s tribute ensures the forward’s memory will live on at the Amex Stadium, where the No. 20 will symbolize both a brilliant career and a cherished friendship.[](https://www.espn.co.uk/football/story/_/id/45881017/brighton-james-milner-wear-no-20-diogo-jota-tribute)
