Trent Dedicates Liverpool vs Madrid Match to Jota, Here's His Touching Message

Trent Alexander-Arnold's return to Anfield with Real Madrid for the Champions League match on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, early morning WIB, was more than just a reunion on the pitch. There was a poignant moment when the English right-back paid an emotional tribute to the late Diogo Jota, his former teammate who tragically passed away last July.

Before the match, Alexander-Arnold penned a heartfelt open letter to his friend. He posted the letter on Real Madrid's official website on Tuesday night.

“My dear Diogo, you are deeply missed, but forever loved. Your memory and Andre's (Silva) will always live on,” wrote Alexander-Arnold.

“I smile whenever I think of you and will always cherish the beautiful moments we shared. I miss you, my friend, every single day. Forever number 20, YNWA.”

Beyond the letter, the player now wearing the white of Los Blancos also laid a floral wreath in front of Anfield Stadium, where his long history with Jota was forged. 

He was accompanied by Real Madrid coach and Liverpool legend Xabi Alonso, young defender Dean Huijsen, and club legend Emilio Butragueno.

Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, died in a traffic accident in Spain last July. The tragedy shook the football world, especially the Liverpool family.

Alexander-Arnold, who now plays for Real Madrid after his Liverpool contract ended last May, had previously shared a profound tribute on social media shortly after news of Jota's passing emerged.

“It's incredibly hard to find the right words when your mind and heart are still struggling to accept the loss of someone you deeply care about,” he wrote.

“Diogo, your family was your world. They meant everything. To Rute, his children, and his parents, our hearts are shattered. The same goes for Andre.

“Brothers and best friends. When the pain eases, I want to remember Diogo with a big smile. So much laughter and happy moments. He was an incredible teammate and a true friend. Forever number 20. Rest in peace, Diogo.”

The bond between Arnold and Jota was forged during their five seasons together at Liverpool. Both were known for their close relationship, on and off the pitch, often seen joking during training sessions or club interviews.

The tribute night at Anfield became an emotional moment uniting two great clubs, Liverpool and Real Madrid, in shared grief. 

Beyond rivalry, football remains about friendship and everlasting memories.