FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono has released a statement saying he is enduring the most difficult days of his life following the fatal on-pitch collision with Tenerife striker Jesus de Miguel. The incident occurred during their Segunda Division fixture when Owono collided with De Miguel near the halfway line.
De Miguel was struck in the chest by Owono's knee and immediately collapsed, with teammates frantically signalling for medical assistance. He was rushed to hospital for treatment but sadly passed away on Tuesday following a cardiac arrest. The 30-year-old's death has plunged Spanish football into mourning.
Emotional tribute and statement
Owono has been subjected to criticism over his challenge, prompting him to deactivate his Instagram account, but has now addressed the tragedy. In a statement, FC Andorra said: "FC Andorra continues to be deeply affected by the death of Jesús de Miguel. In these very difficult moments, our player Jesús Owono wishes to personally share a few words."
Owono said: "These are the most difficult days of my life. I am struggling to find the words and find it very difficult to assimilate anything that has happened. I feel an enormous pain for the loss of Jesús. I think of him, his family, and everyone who loved him. I know there will be many issues to address; I will face whatever comes with the utmost respect. But right now, honestly, I cannot think of anything else except Jesús and the pain we are experiencing. Rest in peace, Jesús."
The club added: "FC Andorra asks for the utmost sensitivity and respect."
Investigation and team-mate support
Spanish authorities have launched a standard investigation into potential involuntary manslaughter. Santa Cruz de Tenerife chief prosecutor Jose Luis Sanchez-Jauregui said that criminal proceedings against Owono are 'very unlikely'.
Owono's team-mate, Lautaro Spatz, has come to his defence. Spatz wrote: "There are moments when football loses its meaning. Moments that mark you forever and make you realise how fragile life can be. What we went through is something none of us will ever forget. A tragedy that has left us completely broken, speechless, and with a sadness that is difficult to explain. First and foremost, I want to express my deepest condolences and all my love to Jesus' family, friends, and loved ones, as well as to the entire Tenerife community and the entire football family. Since yesterday, the entire FC Andorra squad has been shocked, devastated, and deeply affected by what has happened. It is a tragedy we never imagined we would experience on a football pitch. I also want to say a few words to my team-mate, goalkeeper, and friend, who is deeply affected by what happened. Those of us who know him know the kind of person he is. We know how much he is suffering right now and that he would never intend to hurt anyone. In football, unforeseen events occur, but no one can imagine that one of them could end with such tragic consequences. Today, football doesn't matter. All that remains is to offer our condolences, show the utmost respect, and send all our strength to the family and to all those suffering this terrible loss. Rest in peace, Demi."
Medical response questions
Any death 'not resulting from natural causes' automatically triggers a judicial investigation, meaning homicide officers in Tenerife launched a probe. Questions are set to be addressed regarding the medical response, including whether De Miguel was administered oxygen on the pitch, whether a defibrillator was deployed, and concerns surrounding the care he received during his ambulance transfer.
