UCL Night Real Madrid player, Alexander-Arnold, paid an emotional tribute to late Liverpool striker, Diogo Jota, and Andre Silva at Anfield
Real Madrid’s delegation, led by Trent Alexander-Arnold and manager Xabi Alonso, paid an emotional visit to Anfield on Monday to honour the memory of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva, who tragically passed away in a car accident in July.
The gesture took place ahead of Madrid’s Champions League clash with Liverpool on Tuesday night.
Alexander-Arnold’s heartfelt tribute
Alexander-Arnold, returning to Anfield for the first time since joining Real Madrid in the summer, laid a floral wreath, a handwritten note, and a red PlayStation 4 controller, symbolising Jota’s passion for gaming at the memorial site.
His message read: “My mate Diogo, you are so missed but still so loved. Yours and Andre’s memory will always live on. I smile every time I think about you and will always remember the great times we shared. Miss you, mate, every day. Forever 20. YNWA. Love Trent and family.”
He was joined by Emilio Butragueño and Dean Huijsen, who also placed flowers at the site of remembrance. The tribute moved fans on social media, who praised the display of respect and unity from the Spanish giants.
Remembering a fallen red
The memorial comes four months after the deaths of Jota and Andre Silva, who died in a road accident in northern Spain on July 3.
The tragedy deeply affected the Liverpool community and the wider football world. In response, Liverpool retired Jota’s No. 20 shirt, immortalising the Portuguese forward’s contributions during his five-year spell at Anfield.
Nicknamed the “Silent Assassin,” Jota made over 140 appearances, winning the Premier League, FA Cup, two League Cups, and a Community Shield. His consistent performances and humility made him a fan favourite and a respected figure in the dressing room.
Emotional return for Alexander-Arnold
Alexander-Arnold’s return carried added sentiment, marking his first visit to Anfield since departing in an £8.4 million move to Madrid.
Alongside Alonso, another figure revered by both clubs, the 26-year-old stood in silence at the shrine before placing his tribute.
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