Alexander-Arnold Returns Amid Jota Tribute, Exit Controversy

Trent Alexander‑Arnold returned to Anfield to lay flowers and a handwritten tribute at the memorial for former teammate Diogo Jota and Jota’s brother Andre, who were killed in a road crash in July. His message read in part, “My mate Diogo. You are so missed but still so loved…Forever 20. YNWA,” and a red PlayStation pad was left as a nod to Jota’s love of gaming. He was joined by Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso, defender Dean Huijsen and club legend Emilio Butragueno; Real’s wreath carried condolences to Liverpool and Jota’s family. The visit came ahead of Real’s Champions League tie with Liverpool and against the backdrop of Alexander‑Arnold’s controversial summer exit — Real reportedly paid about £8.4m to buy out the final weeks of his Liverpool contract, which drew boos from some fans. Alexander‑Arnold has also been out of the team recently with a hamstring problem sustained in September.