By Salma El-Sakka
Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono said he is enduring "enormous pain" and the "most difficult days of my life" following the death of Tenerife striker Jesus de Miguel. De Miguel, 30, died in hospital on Tuesday after suffering a cardiac arrest caused by an accidental collision with Owono during stoppage time of their Spanish second division match on Monday.
Owono's Statement
In a statement released by his club on Wednesday, Owono, an Equatorial Guinea international, said he is struggling to find words and process what happened. He expressed deep sorrow for De Miguel, his family, and all who loved him, adding that he will face any consequences with utmost respect. Owono also deleted his Instagram account on Tuesday.
Incident Details
The collision occurred as Owono came out of his box to clear the ball, striking De Miguel in the chest with force. The forward went into cardiac arrest on the pitch. Owono was sent off following the incident. Tenerife announced six days of mourning, and a minute's silence was observed before Tuesday night's Champions League fixtures and all UEFA matches this week.
Investigation and Tributes
Spanish police opened a routine investigation into possible involuntary manslaughter, though criminal proceedings are considered unlikely under Spanish law, which automatically triggers a judicial inquiry for non-natural deaths. Andorra defender Lautaro Spatz defended his teammate, describing Owono as a person who would never intend to harm anyone. Tributes poured in from across the football world, including Barcelona's Raphinha, who dedicated his Champions League goals to De Miguel's family.
Memorial Service
Fans gathered at Tenerife's Heliodoro Rodriguez Lopez stadium to lay tributes. A memorial service for De Miguel will be held at the ground on Saturday evening, with supporters invited to attend.
