Real Madrid paid an emotional tribute to the late Portuguese footballer Diogo Jota, who lost his life in a traffic accident last summer in Zamora. The gesture took place after the press conference prior to the Champions League match that Real Madrid will play against Liverpool at Anfield, a stadium that witnessed some of the Portuguese striker's best performances.

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Led by coach Xabi Alonso, Director of Institutional Relations Emilio Butragueno, and players Dean Huijsen and Trent Alexander-Arnold, the Real Madrid representatives approached the memorial erected by Liverpool fans in honor of their number 20. There they laid a floral tribute and observed a minute of silence, while those present responded with warm applause.

The gesture reflected the unity and respect that transcends sporting rivalry. Diogo Jota, 28, was a much-loved figure among the Reds' fans. In his five seasons with the English club, he played almost 200 matches and scored 65 goals. His tragic death, along with his brother Andre, just a week after marrying his girlfriend Rute Cardoso, left a profound void in European football. Liverpool decided to retire his number 20 jersey as a sign of eternal respect.

“I miss you every day”: Alexander-Arnold's personal tribute

Trent Alexander-Arnold delivered one of the most moving moments of the day. The English defender, who shared a dressing room and triumphs with Jota, brought a bouquet in Liverpool's colors and a handwritten letter. "My friend Diogo. We miss you so much, but we still love you very much. Your memory and Andre's will always live on. 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," the full-back wrote in his message, which was placed alongside the flowers on the makeshift altar set up by the fans. The tribute had a symbolic closing when Alexander-Arnold also left a PlayStation controller with the message: "Champion. You'll “never walk alone.” With a simple gesture,but full of meaning for those who knew Jota's passion for video games and the competitive spirit that characterized him.

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