Real Madrid pays tribute to Diogo Jota at Anfield

Anfield awoke covered in emotion and silence. A sea of scarves, shirts, flowers, and flags surrounded the Liverpool stadium, honoring Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva, who tragically died in a car accident in Zamora. Every corner of the stadium exuded respect, gratitude, and sorrow for a player who left an indelible mark on the hearts of the ‘reds’ and football fans worldwide.

Ahead of the Champions League clash, Real Madrid decided to join the tribute. Trent Alexander-Arnold, Xabi Alonso, Dean Huijsen, and Emilio Butragueño laid two bouquets of flowers in front of Anfield’s main facade, honoring the Jota brothers before the much-anticipated match.

The emotional letter from Trent Alexander-Arnold

The most moving gesture was the letter Alexander-Arnold left alongside his red-and-white bouquet. The English full-back, a former teammate of Diogo, dedicated words to both the player and his brother:

"My friend Diogo. We miss you so much, but we still love you dearly. Your memory and André’s will always remain alive. I smile every time I think of you, and I will always remember the good times we shared. I miss you, my friend, every day."

In addition, he left a red PlayStation controller, recalling Diogo’s iconic celebrations with the invisible joystick, with a message: "Champion forever, I will miss you."

Xabi Alonso and Real Madrid’s message

The tribute continued with Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid’s coach and former Liverpool player, who placed a bouquet of white flowers with an official club message:

"Real Madrid expresses its condolences to Liverpool FC and the family of Diogo Jota. The football world mourns the loss of an exceptional player and an incredible person."

This gesture shows that Europe’s great clubs respect the memory and legacy of their peers beyond sporting rivalry.

Anfield, memory, and emotion before the match

Real Madrid’s visit to Liverpool also marked historic reunions. Besides Trent, Xabi Alonso returned to Anfield as a coach, recalling his time at the club from 2004 to 2009, where he played a key role in winning the 2005 Champions League.

The Champions League clash promises not only action on the pitch but also emotion off it: flowers, letters, and gestures of respect remind us that football is far more than a game. Anfield and Real Madrid, united by a tribute that will remain in history.