The Heartbreaking Secret Trent Alexander-Arnold Carries in Every Match
Observant fans spotted Trent Alexander-Arnold's heartfelt homage to his former Liverpool colleague Diogo Jota during Real Madrid's 1–0 victory against Benfica.
Jota lost his life tragically in a vehicle crash along with his sibling André Silva this past July, devastating the football community and beyond.
Numerous tributes flooded in to honor Jota and his brother, with his former Liverpool teammates especially impacted by the loss. Alexander-Arnold began a fresh phase in his career around the same time by signing with Real Madrid, yet he still pays respect to Jota's legacy.
The fullback was seen sporting cleats inscribed with the number 20—Jota's jersey number at Anfield, which the club has permanently retired at both senior and academy levels—along with an eternity symbol during Madrid's Champions League match against Benfica in Jota's homeland of Portugal.
Liverpool fans persistently chant Jota's beloved song during the 20th minute of each game, and commemorative sites have been created outside Anfield and Wolverhampton Wanderers' Molineux—another club where he previously played.
Alexander-Arnold maintained a strong friendship with Jota throughout their period together at Merseyside and delivered a heartfelt statement following his death last July.
"He was an incredibly dear friend, someone who brightened any space he entered," stated the Madrid defender. "I shared the locker room for five years [and have] wonderful memories both during matches and away from the field with him. It's certain he will never fade from anyone's memory. He will remain forever in all our hearts for the exceptional person and athlete he was."
Alexander-Arnold Responds to Alleged Racist Abuse at Benfica
Alexander-Arnold Responds to Alleged Racist Abuse at Benfica
Alexander-Arnold participated in the contentious encounter between Madrid and Benfica during the opening leg of the Champions League knockout playoff stage, which was briefly suspended in the second period following alleged racial harassment of Vinicius Junior by opponent Gianluca Prestianni.
UEFA is presently examining the situation, but Alexander-Arnold joined others in criticizing Prestianni after he reportedly referred to Vinicius using a racial slur.
"Naturally I cannot elaborate extensively, there's an active investigation," the 27-year-old shared with Amazon Prime following the match. "However, it's shameful for football, Vini has endured this before, it's repulsive.
"It has cast a shadow over our performance, following such a spectacular goal. Vini has faced this multiple times throughout his career, it occurred again tonight and spoiled the evening for our entire squad.
"It's a stain on football, there's absolutely no room for it in the sport, it's revolting."