Liverpool Unveil Permanent Forever 20 Memorial For Diogo Jota And Brother Andre Silva

WRITTEN BY JOSHUA NARH

Liverpool FC have unveiled images of a new permanent memorial at Anfield in honour of late forward Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva following their tragic deaths in July.

The memorial, titled Forever 20, was created to celebrate the lives of both brothers and recognise the love shown by supporters, teammates and family members across the world.

Jota and Andre Silva lost their lives in a car accident while the Portugal international was travelling back to Merseyside ahead of pre-season training. The tragedy happened just days after Jota married his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso.

Following the deaths of the two brothers, Anfield became a place of mourning as thousands of fans left scarves, flowers, banners, jerseys and handwritten messages outside the stadium in tribute.

Supporters have continued to honour Jota throughout the season, with Liverpool fans regularly singing his song during the 20th minute of matches. The club also retired the No.20 shirt across all levels in his memory.

According to Liverpool, the Forever 20 sculpture includes several symbolic features connected to the brothers’ lives and careers.

In an official statement, the club said “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.”

The club added that the memorial “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.”

Liverpool confirmed that the memorial will be placed on 97 Avenue at Anfield, the same location where supporters created a large tribute area after the brothers’ deaths.

The club explained that the sculpture “will stand on a Granby Rock-faced stone plinth, laser-engraved with a dedication to both brothers,” while many of the tributes left by supporters have also been incorporated into the structure itself.

Liverpool further stated that “This unique recycling process ensures the voices and emotions shared by fans at the time become a permanent and enduring part of this memorial.”

The memorial also includes personal details connected to Jota’s life away from football, including a games controller placed on the plinth.

“It will serve as a permanent symbol of love, unity and remembrance, and a place where everyone can reflect, remember and pay their respects,” the club said.