On Saturday, Diogo Jota’s funeral was held in Portugal, and many of his former teammates were in attendance. One that was unable to go was Trent Alexander-Arnold, due to being involved with Real Madrid at the Club World Cup.
Trent had been teammates with Jota for five years prior to his Real Madrid move earlier this move, and during that period, they developed a very close relationship. As such, it was very difficult for him to hear the news of his sudden passing earlier this week.
Trent Alexander-Arnold speaks on Diogo Jota
Speaking to DAZN (via CaughtOffside) after Real Madrid’s Club World Cup quarter-final victory over Borussia Dortmund, Trent spoke on the matter, giving an emotional tribute to his former teammate.
“It’s truly, truly heart-breaking to wake up to news like that. It’s something you would never ever expect. He was a very close friend, someone who lit up every room when he was in it. I shared a dressing room with him for five years and have amazing memories on and off the pitch with him. It goes without saying that he will never be forgotten by anyone.”
It’s a very difficult situation for Trent, who has a solid support system around him at Real Madrid to help deal with the news. It is probable that he will not be able to fully digest the news or grieve until the Club World Cup is over, at which point he may return to Liverpool for a period of time before pre-season starts.
It will be difficult for Trent to focus 100% on Real Madrid’s Club World Cup efforts, but he will be keen to help his new club win the tournament. Xabi Alonso’s side will face Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-final next week, and victory in that one would set up a final against Chelsea or Fluminense.
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