Goalkeeper Jesus Owono has spoken publicly for the first time since the death of Tenerife forward Jesus de Miguel, expressing his "enormous pain" following their on-pitch collision. Owono, who plays for Andorra, collided with De Miguel near the halfway line during a Spanish second division match, with De Miguel struck in the chest by Owono's knee. The 30-year-old collapsed and was rushed to hospital, but died on Tuesday after suffering a cardiac arrest.
Statement from Owono and Andorra
Owono issued a statement alongside his club, describing the period as the most difficult of his life. He 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 Jesus. 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 Jesus and the pain we are experiencing. Rest in peace, Jesus."
FC Andorra added: "FC Andorra asks for the utmost sensitivity and respect." The club had earlier said it continues to be "deeply affected" by the death.
Police investigation and legal outlook
Spanish police have launched a routine investigation into possible involuntary manslaughter. Any death not resulting from natural causes automatically triggers a judicial inquiry, and homicide detectives in Tenerife are examining the case. The investigation will also look at the medical response, including whether De Miguel was given oxygen on the pitch, whether a defibrillator was used, and concerns about the care he received during his ambulance transfer.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife chief prosecutor Jose Luis Sanchez-Jauregui has stated that criminal proceedings against Owono are "very unlikely."
Support from teammates and football community
Owono's teammate Lautaro Spatz has defended the goalkeeper, writing: "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."
Spatz added: "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 teammate, 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."
Fixtures have been suspended across Spain until Friday, and Tenerife has halted all club activities during a six-day mourning period. The club will honour De Miguel at the Heliodoro Rodriguez Lopez Stadium on November 7 at 6pm, and the first team squad, coaching staff and club officials will attend his funeral in Navahermosa.
