Trent Alexander-Arnold has touched the hearts of fans with an emotional statement following Real Madrid's victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Club World Cup.
The Englishman, who helped his team with an assist, said that throughout the match he had felt the presence of Diogo Jota, his former Liverpool teammate, who tragically lost his life in a traffic accident, along with his brother, Andre Silva.
"[Jota] was one of my closest friends. I'm sure he would have wanted me to carry on and give my best for the team. He was with me, I felt his presence on the pitch," Alexander-Arnold said.
The English defender spoke fondly of Jota, describing him as someone who "lit up every room he entered" and added that his memory "will never be forgotten."
The joint funeral of Diogo Jota and his brother was held on Saturday in Portugal, as the football world continues to honor his figure with numerous gestures of respect.