Andorra defender Lautaro Spatz has publicly defended goalkeeper Jesus Owono, saying his teammate is "suffering" after the death of Tenerife striker Jesus de Miguel, who died following a collision during a Spanish second division match.
The 25-year-old Owono collided with De Miguel during Monday's game. De Miguel later suffered a cardiac arrest and died in hospital on Tuesday. Spanish police have since opened a routine investigation into possible involuntary manslaughter.
Teammate's Tribute
Spatz took to Instagram to support his teammate, who deleted his own account after reportedly receiving abuse. 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."
He added: "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."
Owono's State
Spatz continued: "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."
It was reported in Spain that Owono broke down in tears and was praying in the dressing room after the tackle. The game was abandoned at 2-2 after De Miguel was rushed to hospital.
Investigation and Tributes
Santa Cruz de Tenerife chief prosecutor Jose Luis Sanchez-Jauregui says that criminal proceedings against Owono are "very unlikely".
Despite initially being in a "stable" condition in intensive care, the 30-year-old's condition worsened overnight and he passed away. Thousands of fans gathered at a vigil at Tenerife's stadium on Tuesday evening to remember Madrid-born De Miguel.
Andorra paid tribute by saying: "With broken hearts and devastated, we want to send our most sincere condolences to the family of Jeses de Miguel, to all his teammates, friends, and to CD Tenerife."
De Miguel's teammates at Tenerife also posted on social media. Midfielder Juanjo Sanchez said: "You let me into your heart, and you earned a place in mine, as we shared moments of laughter every single day and took walks barefoot after our training sessions. I cannot let this moment pass without highlighting what a wonderful person you are. You never had an unkind word or a sour expression for anyone, and you always displayed exemplary conduct, despite all the challenges you faced. You will always be with me, my friend."
Tenerife striker Enric Gallego added: "Thank you for everything we experienced together - for your camaraderie, your character, your humanity and the exemplary attitude you always showed. I feel very fortunate to have shared a locker room with you. I'm going to miss you so much."
