Distraught goalkeeper breaks silence on opponent's death in red card incident

Jesus de Miguel died after a sickening collision with Jesus Owono, who was immediately sent off

Jesus Owono has issued a statement(Image: Europa Press via Getty Images)

Goalkeeper Jesus Owono has spoken of his "enormous pain" after being involved in the on-field collision that led to the death of Tenerife striker Jesus de Miguel.

Owono, who plays for FC Andorra, has released a statement expressing his devastation following the tragedy, describing the past few days as the most difficult of his life.

The goalkeeper collided with De Miguel near the halfway line during a Spanish second-division fixture. The Tenerife forward was struck in the chest by Owono's knee and immediately collapsed, prompting players from both teams to call for medical assistance

De Miguel was rushed to hospital but tragically died on Tuesday after suffering a cardiac arrest, aged 30.

Jesús de Miguel died following the incident(Image: X: @CDTOficial)

Spanish police have since opened a judicial investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death, with a routine inquiry into possible involuntary manslaughter launched.

Owono has faced significant backlash over the incident, leading him to shut down his Instagram account. However, he has now spoken publicly for the first time through a statement released by his club.

FC Andorra said: "FC Andorra continues to be deeply affected by the death of Jesús de Miguel. In these very difficult moments, our player Jesus Owono wishes to personally share a few words."

Owono 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."

Andorra added: "FC Andorra asks for the utmost sensitivity and respect."

Fans of CD Tenerife lay flowers and pay tribute to 30-year-old footballer Jesús de Miguel Alameda(Image: Andres Gutierrez/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Santa Cruz de Tenerife chief prosecutor Jose Luis Sanchez-Jauregui has indicated that criminal proceedings against Owono are considered 'very unlikely'.

The goalkeeper has also received public support from teammate Lautaro Spatz, who defended his character and insisted there was never any intention to hurt De Miguel.

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.

"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.

"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."

Under Spanish law, any death that does not result from natural causes automatically triggers a judicial investigation. Homicide officers in Tenerife have therefore launched an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding De Miguel's death.

The investigation will also consider the medical response to the incident, including whether the forward received oxygen on the pitch, whether a defibrillator was used and the assistance he received during his ambulance transfer to hospital.

Football in Spain has been left in mourning, with matches suspended until Friday.

Tenerife have also suspended all club activities as they enter six days of mourning for their player.

The club will hold a public tribute to De Miguel at their Heliodoro Rodriguez Lopez Stadium on November 7 at 6pm, inviting supporters who wish to pay their respects and say their final goodbyes.

The first team, coaching staff and club management will also attend De Miguel's funeral, which is due to take place in Navahermosa.