Following the tragic death of Diogo Jota in a car accident in Spain, former Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold has paid a heartfelt tribute to his former teammate, describing him as an "amazing man" who "lit up a room". Jota, along with his brother Andre Silva, died in the early hours of Thursday in northwestern Spain.
Alexander-Arnold, who recently joined Real Madrid after Liverpool's title-winning 2024-25 season, spoke to DAZN after Real's quarter-final victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Club World Cup in New York. "Some things are bigger than the game," he said, acknowledging the profound impact of Jota's passing. He expressed that waking up to such news was "truly, truly heartbreaking" and something "you would never, ever expect".
The former Liverpool vice-captain struggled to find the right words to express the depth of his sorrow. "It's so difficult to find the right words when your head and heart are struggling to accept that someone you care so much about has gone," Alexander-Arnold shared on social media.
Alexander-Arnold reminisced about the close bond he shared with Jota during their five years together at Liverpool. "He was a very close friend," Alexander-Arnold stated. "I shared the dressing room (with him) for five years (and have) amazing memories on and off the pitch with him". He emphasized Jota's positive impact on those around him, saying, "someone who lit up a room when he was in it".
He also acknowledged Jota's deep love for his family. "Diogo, your family was your world. They were everything," Alexander-Arnold wrote, sending his condolences to Jota's wife, Rute, their three children, and his parents.
The football world has united in grief, with tributes pouring in from clubs, players, and fans alike. Alexander-Arnold noted the "very emotional, very heart-warming" display of love and support from the footballing community. He acknowledged how difficult the situation is for Jota's family and expressed comfort in seeing everyone "uniting and showing love and support".
Liverpool FC is "devastated" by the tragic loss. The club has announced that they will retire the number 20 shirt, worn by Jota, as a tribute to his contributions and to honor his memory. They will also pay the full amount of Diogo Jota's remaining two-year contract to his family.
Jota's funeral, held in Gondomar, Portugal, was attended by numerous sports figures, former teammates, and members of the Portuguese national team. Liverpool chartered a special flight to allow players and staff to attend the service.
Alexander-Arnold concluded his tribute by affirming that Jota will never be forgotten. "It goes without saying he will never be forgotten by anyone," he said. "He will live long in all our memories for the amazing man and player he was".
