Liverpool left-back Kostas Tsimikas recently unveiled a heartfelt tribute tattoo in memory of his late teammate Diogo Jota, with the phrase “Wish you were here” accompanied by Jota’s squad number 20. The simple yet symbolic ink, etched on his left hand, is a poignant testament to their bond both on and off the pitch.
Tsimikas and Jota joined Liverpool in the summer of 2020 and quickly formed a strong friendship. As Tsimikas reflected, “We’ve moved to the club the same period… We’ve shared and celebrated some of our best moments of our careers together. You were a special player, a special guy, a true legend Diogo”.
Jota tragically passed away in a car accident in Spain on July 3, 2025, along with his younger brother André Silva, just 11 days after his wedding to Rute Cardoso and at the age of 28. The brothers succumbed when their Lamborghini veered off the A‑52 motorway due to a suspected tyre blowout and caught fire, according to Spanish police.
Following Jota’s death, Liverpool announced that his No. 20 jersey would be retired forever across all levels of the club—a rare honor reflecting his deep impact on teammates and fans alike. Supporters organized memorials at Anfield, where shirts, flowers, and personal mementos were left in tribute. The squad observed a minute of silence, wore black armbands during pre-season fixtures, and Liverpool has updated its website squad page to include a special “Forever” section in his memory.
Tsimikas’s tattoo adds a deeply personal layer to the wider solemn tributes, offering a visual symbol of longing and remembrance. For the football community, it’s a reminder that beyond goals and matches, emotional bonds leave indelible marks.
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