James Milner’s Emotional Tribute to Diogo Jota in Brighton’s Win Over Manchester City

James Milner delivered a heartfelt tribute to his late former Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota during Brighton’s 2-1 victory over Manchester City on Sunday. The veteran midfielder, who switched to the No.20 shirt this season in Jota’s memory, marked his equaliser with a celebration that mirrored the Portuguese forward’s iconic “PlayStation” pose.

James Milner tribute to his equalising goal with two Diogo celebrations while wearing the No.20 shirt. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/l4lgoRt2ZR

— Samuel (@SamueILFC) August 31, 2025

Milner had shared three years with Jota at Anfield and described him as “an amazing player and a great friend.” Jota and his brother, André Silva, tragically passed away in a car accident in Spain in July, leading Liverpool to retire the No.20 shirt permanently.

A Goal That Carried More Than Just Points

Introduced in the second half, Milner won and converted a penalty in the 66th minute to bring Brighton level against City. At 39 years and 239 days, the midfielder not only scored his first Premier League goal since 2019 but also became the oldest penalty scorer in the competition’s history. Only Teddy Sheringham has found the net at an older age.

For Milner, though, the goal was less about personal milestones and more about honouring Jota. His cross-legged celebration instantly connected with Liverpool supporters watching from afar, many recognising it as a gesture of respect for the former No.20.

The Match Turned Brighton’s Way

Brighton, who had had a poor start to the season, displayed stamina against the champions of the day. With the equaliser by Milner, the Amex stadium was filled with faith and towards the end, in the 89th minute, Brajan Gruda sealed the turnaround with a late winner. The outcome provided Manchester City with two losses in a row and the first league victory to Brighton in the campaign.

The catalyst was the punishment that Milner received. His management and ability to remain calm during a crisis took fans back to what his career has been about in more than 20 years of his career.

Keeping Jota’s Legacy Alive

Milner’s decision to wear the No.20 shirt is more than a symbolic act. It represents a promise he made at Jota’s funeral in Portugal — to keep his memory alive each time he steps on the pitch. For Liverpool fans, seeing one of their most respected former players carrying that legacy in Brighton colours adds another layer of meaning to his tribute.

The moment also highlighted the strength of football that transcends competition. Brighton was celebrating their win, but fans of other clubs could admire the kindness of the gesture made by Milner. His ambition, his partying, and his words together made the story of the season one of the most emotional stories in the Premier League.

Final Word

To James Milner the equaliser on Sunday was not just his first in a Brighton shirt. It was a tribute to a dead comrade, a show of fidelity, and a recollection of the reasons why he is still one of the most admired practitioners in English football. Three points went to Brighton, but the occasion had a weight much more than the scoreline, thanks to the tribute of Milner.