Liverpool Unveils 'Forever 20' Memorial to Diogo Jota and Brother at Anfield
Permanent Tribute to Diogo Jota and Andre Silva at Anfield
By Lori Ewing
July 2 (Reuters) - Liverpool have unveiled a permanent memorial to forward Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva at Anfield on the eve of the first anniversary of their deaths.
The 'Forever 20' Memorial
The memorial, titled "Forever 20", stands on 97 Avenue outside the stadium, where supporters left thousands of flowers, scarves, banners and other tributes following the brothers' deaths.
Tragic Loss of the Jota Brothers
Jota, 28, and Silva were killed in a car crash in northwestern Spain on July 3 last year when their Lamborghini left the road and burst into flames.
Design and Symbolism
Created by Emma Rodgers, the centrepiece is a heart-shaped sculpture inspired by Jota's trademark goal celebration. Viewed from different angles, it also reveals the numbers 20 and 30, the shirt numbers worn by the brothers.
Supporters' Tributes Incorporated
Liverpool said the memorial incorporates items left by supporters, including sections of scarves and shirts embedded in the sculpture.
A bronze cast of a flower left by a fan and a PlayStation controller -- a nod to Jota's love of gaming and one of his celebration poses -- are also featured.
Dedication and Local Connection
The plinth beneath the sculpture carries a dedication to the brothers and includes stone from their hometown of Gondomar in Portugal.
Memorial Features and Legacy
The memorial also features lyrics from Liverpool's chant for Jota, set to Creedence Clearwater Revival's "Bad Moon Rising," which supporters sang at the 20-minute mark of every home match last season.
"'Forever 20' 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.
Reporting and Editing
(Reporting by Lori EwingEditing by Toby Davis)
