By Basant El-Faramawy
Tenerife striker Jesus de Miguel died on Tuesday from injuries sustained in a collision during a Segunda Division match against Andorra on Monday. The 30-year-old suffered a cardiac arrest after clashing with goalkeeper Jesus Owono and was hospitalized; the match was abandoned. Although the club initially reported he was stable, his condition deteriorated and he died at 8 a.m. local time.
Fans and clubs pay respects
Supporters gathered outside Tenerife's Estadio Heliodoro Rodriguez Lopez to lay flowers and light candles beneath a picture of the player. The club declared six days of official mourning, suspending all activities, and announced a farewell service at the stadium on Saturday open to the public. Players, staff, and officials will attend his funeral.
Football world reacts
A minute's silence was observed before Tuesday's Champions League fixtures and will be held before all UEFA matches this week. Barcelona forward Raphinha, after scoring twice against Aston Villa, dedicated his performance to De Miguel's family, sending a "message of strength." Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta called the death "heartbreaking," while Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho described it as "very shocking for the world of football" and expressed concern for Owono, who received a red card and deactivated his Instagram account.
Investigation and postponements
Spanish police opened a routine investigation into possible involuntary manslaughter, as required by law for non-natural deaths. The Spanish Football Federation postponed Tuesday's Copa del Rey and Copa del Reina matches in honor of De Miguel, extending condolences to his family, club, and fans.
Career summary
De Miguel made his professional debut in 2015 with Leganes B and played for several Spanish clubs before joining Tenerife from Castellon in 2025. He signed a three-year contract last summer and helped the team earn promotion back to the Segunda Division, scoring 11 goals in 29 appearances.
