Goalkeeper Involved in Jesus de Miguel Death Unsure About Future
FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesús Owono is unsure whether he will continue playing soccer following the collision that preceded the death of Tenerife forward Jesús de Miguel.
Owono was sent off after colliding with De Miguel during Andorra’s La Liga 2 match on Nov. 2. The match was abandoned after the forward collapsed on the pitch and received emergency medical attention. He was taken to hospital by ambulance and died the following day.
Andorra return to action this Saturday against Almería in the Spanish second division, their first match since De Miguel’s death. Owono will not be involved as he considers his future in the sport.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Andorra manager Carles Manso said the 25-year-old goalkeeper was “completely free to make any decision” about his next steps.
“It's a tragedy, and he [Owono] never intended for it to end this way. It's a very sensitive situation, one we wouldn't wish on anyone,” Manso said. “As the person most involved, he has a very difficult situation to manage, and we must respect his process and his privacy.”
“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.”
Manso said the club’s responsibility was to support Owono and remain close to him.
“When he feels it is appropriate and when he feels genuinely ready to take a decision like that [he will do so],” he added.
“I feel enormous pain”
Following De Miguel’s death, Andorra released a statement on Owono’s behalf describing his grief.
“These are the most difficult days of my life.
“I struggle to find the words, and it is very hard for me to come to terms with what has happened. I feel enormous pain over the loss of Jesús. I think of him, his family, and everyone who loved him.
“I know there will be many issues to address, and 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 all experiencing.
“Rest in peace, Jesus.”
Tenerife also paid tribute to De Miguel on Nov. 7, posting the message: “Jesús de Miguel, siempre en nuestros corazones.”
This week, De Miguel’s family thanked those who had contributed to a crowdfunding page established in his honor, which had raised more than $200,000.
“We would like to express our heartfelt thanks for all the expressions of affection and support we have received,” the family’s statement read. “We have been deeply moved to see so many of you rally behind this initiative.”
Investigation and possible disciplinary action
Owono, an Equatorial Guinea international, faces a suspension of four to 12 matches under the Spanish Football Federation’s Disciplinary Code. Police in Spain have also opened a routine investigation into possible involuntary manslaughter following De Miguel’s death.
Under Spanish law, a death deemed non-natural automatically triggers an inquiry. If proven, involuntary manslaughter can carry a prison sentence of up to four years.
The collision occurred in second-half stoppage time with the score at 2–2. Owono rushed out of goal to intercept a long ball, striking the onrushing De Miguel in the chest with his knee near the center circle.
Tenerife later said in a statement that De Miguel suffered a cardiac arrest because of the impact of the challenge.
De Miguel was admitted to the intensive care unit at the University Hospital of Nuestra Senora de Candelaria, close to the stadium. He died after his neurological condition “deteriorated” overnight.
