Goalkeeper Jesus Owono has been handed the maximum punishment available under the rules after a collision that killed CD Tenerife player Jesus de Miguel. The Equatorial Guinea international will not be able to play for at least 12 matches.
Owono was sent off after colliding with De Miguel during FC Andorra's LaLiga fixture against Tenerife on November 2. The 30-year-old striker was challenging for the ball when he was struck in the chest by the goalkeeper during the final minutes at Estadio Heliodoro Rodriguez Lopez.
Fatal Incident and Aftermath
De Miguel tragically suffered a cardiorespiratory arrest on the pitch. He was rushed to hospital by ambulance but died at 8am the following morning. The Disciplinary Committee of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has confirmed the length of Owono's suspension.
The goalkeeper would have faced a three-match ban for violent play, but has instead received the maximum 12-game punishment available under Article 102 of the RFEF Disciplinary Code. The regulation covers violent actions during play which cause serious injury or harm to an opponent, with sanctions ranging from four to 12 matches.
Tribute and Support
After the shocking news of De Miguel's death, Owono shared a tribute. The 24-year-old said: "These are the most difficult days of my life. I struggle to find the words, and I find it very hard to process what has happened."
"I feel enormous pain at the loss of Jesus. I think of him, his family, and all the people who loved him. I know there will be many questions to address. I will face whatever comes with the utmost respect. But right now, honestly, I cannot think about anything other than Jesus and the pain we are experiencing. Rest in peace, Jesus."
Club's Stance and Compensation
Andorra head coach Carles Manso has made clear that the club will not put pressure on Owono to return to action, if he even does at all. He said: "What we have to do is support him in every way and be close to him. We will give him space so that he feels completely free to make any decision, whether he wants to return, when, or if he does not want to return. When he feels it is appropriate and when he feels genuinely ready to take a decision like that."
Reports in Spain have also suggested De Miguel's family will receive base compensation of around €360,000 (£300,000) following his death.
