Trent’s Heartbreaking Message to Diogo Jota as Tribute Paid Before Anfield Return

Trent Alexander-Arnold wrote an emotional message to Diogo Jota as he paid tribute outside Anfield.

Back in July, the entire sporting world was shaken to its core after news emerged that Liverpool star Jota and his brother Andre were killed following a car accident.

According to local authorities, Jota and Andre were travelling in a Lamborghini, which caught fire after going off-road on the back of a tyre blowout.

Since the tragic news of Jota and Andre's death, tributes have continued to flood in from players, managers and fans.

On Monday night, ahead of Real Madrid's UEFA Champions League match against Liverpool, Alexander-Arnold paid his own tribute.

The 27-year-old, who played with Jota during his time at Liverpool, is returning to Anfield for the first time since leaving the Reds for Madrid this summer.

Along with manager Xabi Alonso, defender Dean Huijsen and Madrid legend Emilio Butragueno, Alexander-Arnold was seen laying a wreath in memory of Jota.

Trent Alexander-Arnold paid tribute outside Anfield. Image: Getty

Accompanying the flowers was a message that 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. Love Trent and family. Forever 20. YNWA."

Trent Alexander-Arnold's emotional message to Diogo Jota. Image: Getty

Alexander-Arnold also put down a red PlayStation controller that had 'Forever a champion 20. TAA' written on it.

During the FIFA Club World Cup in the summer, Alexander-Arnold spoke about Jota's death.

He said: "I had to try to perform for the team and help them win the game, no matter how difficult it was. As hard as it was to do it, I had to push myself to focus on what my job and role was. I tried to do it as best as I could, but it was difficult, and I am not going to lie about that.

"[Jota] was one of my close friends - and I am sure that's what he would have wanted me to do. I'm sure we would have had a laugh and joke about the assist as well. He was there with me, I am sure."

During their time together at Anfield, Alexander-Arnold and Jota played 145 times, winning the Premier League, FA Cup, two League Cups and the Community Shield.

Following Jota's passing, Liverpool announced that the number 20 shirt has been retired across all levels within the club.