Former Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara was visibly emotional during a charity match at Anfield on Saturday, breaking down in tears during a tribute to his former teammate Diogo Jota, who died in a car crash last July at the age of 28.
In the 20th minute of the match between Liverpool legends and Borussia Dortmund legends, play was paused for a minute's applause. Thiago, 34, was seen wiping away tears with his shirt as the crowd paid their respects.
Thiago and Jota joined Liverpool together in the summer of 2020 and spent four years as teammates. Following Jota's death, Thiago paid tribute on Instagram, writing: 'I love you brother. You will forever be with us.' He also attended Jota's funeral.
Saturday's match was the first legends' game at Anfield since Jota's passing. Jurgen Klopp returned as assistant to Kenny Dalglish, with a side that included Steven Gerrard and Sami Hyypia. Thiago scored to put Liverpool 1-0 up in the first half, and Jay Spearing doubled the lead before Dortmund equalised, resulting in a 2-2 draw.
Earlier this week, James Milner also paid tribute to Jota on 'The Rest is Football' podcast, describing him as 'so underrated as a player' and 'so loved'. Milner said: 'He was one of those guys who could sit with anyone and get along and have a laugh with him.'
