Real Madrid president Florentino Perez was among the mourners at the funeral of Spanish striker Jesus de Miguel, who died after a collision during a football match. The funeral took place on Thursday in his hometown of Toledo, where hundreds of people lined the streets to pay their respects.
Funeral in Toledo
De Miguel passed away on Tuesday, one day after a collision with Andorra FC goalkeeper Jesus Owono, who struck the Tenerife forward in the chest as he ran out to clear the ball. The striker died the following morning in hospital from “accidental chest trauma,” according to a preliminary autopsy report.
The funeral was attended by Rafael Louzan, president of the Spanish football federation, World Cup-winning Spain manager Luis de la Fuente, Atletico Madrid CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin, and Perez. Real Madrid legends Jose Antonio Camacho, Emilio Butragueno, and Pedrag Mijatovic were also among the mourners.
Tributes from football figures
Louzan spoke to the media at the funeral, saying: “Thank you to everyone here. Today was the day to be here, supporting Jesus’ family. Our solidarity is with you because I believe this is an irreparable loss.”
De La Fuente also said: “I echo the president’s words. With deep sorrow and emotion, we convey our condolences and respect. It is the best way to demonstrate that football is united. A very warm embrace to all his loved ones.”
Wider tributes
Many tributes have been paid to De Miguel across Europe, with this week’s Champions League matches beginning with a moment of silence for the striker. Owono, the Equatorial Guinea international who was sent off for the collision, also conveyed his sorrow in a statement.
He said: “These are being the most difficult days of my life. I am struggling to find the words, and it is very hard for me to process anything that has happened.”
He added: “I feel immense pain over the loss of Jesus. I am thinking of him, his family, and all the people who loved him. I know there will be many matters to address, and I will face whatever comes with complete respect. But right now, honestly, I cannot think of anything other than Jesus and the grief we are experiencing. Rest in peace, Jesus.”
