Trent Alexander-Arnold shares heartfelt tribute after the passing of former teammate Diogo Jota
Trent Alexander-Arnold has shared a moving tribute to his former Liverpool teammate Diogo Jota, following confirmation of the 28-year-old’s tragic death early Thursday morning.
Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, were killed in a car accident in Zamora, in northwestern Spain. The incident occurred around 12:30am BST, with the Spanish Guardia Civil confirming the brothers were travelling on the A52 when their Lamborghini veered off the road and caught fire after a tyre burst during an overtaking maneuver. Eyewitnesses told emergency services the vehicle became engulfed in flames shortly after the blowout.
The devastating news comes just days after Jota married his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso, with whom he had three children. His death also follows Portugal’s recent UEFA Nations League victory, in which he played a key role.
Tributes poured in from across the football community — including Cristiano Ronaldo, Jurgen Klopp, Arne Slot, and Liverpool FC — remembering Jota not only as a talented player but as a beloved teammate and friend. Alexander-Arnold, visibly heartbroken, posted an emotional message on Instagram, accompanied by photos of his time with Jota at Liverpool.
“It’s hard to express how much pain we’re all in,” he wrote. “When someone you care so deeply about is suddenly gone, the words just don’t come. Diogo loved his family more than anything. Rute, his kids, and his parents were his world. And Andre — his brother and best friend. Our hearts ache for all of them.”
He continued, “One day, when the grief isn’t so sharp, I want to remember Diogo with a smile — for the laughs, the good times, and the incredible teammate and friend he was. He’ll always be our number 20. Rest in peace, Diogo.”
During their time together at Anfield, Jota and Alexander-Arnold won the FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and played a key role in helping Liverpool clinch their 20th league title. Jota’s final goal for the club came as the winner in the Merseyside derby against Everton — his 65th in all competitions since joining from Wolves in 2020.
Following overwhelming calls from fans, Liverpool has announced that Jota’s iconic No.20 shirt will be officially retired to honour his legacy.
According to Father Jose Manuel Macedo, the wake for Diogo and Andre will be held Friday afternoon at the Sao Cosme Chapel. Their funeral will take place on Saturday morning at the Catholic church next to the chapel.
“The bodies of the brothers will be received at the chapel tomorrow for the wake,” the priest told CNN Portugal, via the Daily Mail. “We are here to remember their lives, share in the sorrow, and embrace the hope offered by faith.”
