THE Spanish footballer’s union (AFE) has called for all this weekend’s matches to be postponed in the wake of Jesus de Miguel’s tragic death.

He passed away on Tuesday after a collision with Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono, with the funeral taking place today.

His club Tenerife’s game against Granada and Andorra’s game against Mallorca have already been called off, as well as some midweek cup fixtures.

Spanish sides competed in Europe this week, but the AFE is calling for a pause as their players try to come to terms with events.

AFE president David Aganzo is in Navahermosa for De Miguel’s funeral and a brief statement was issued on behalf of stars across the country.

It read: “The Spanish Footballers’ Association (AFE) has contacted players of all levels to gauge their feelings following the death of Jesús de Miguel. Unanimously, the group has expressed its belief that the matches scheduled for this round should not be played.

“The footballers have expressed their deep sorrow for this loss and understand that the emotional and human circumstances are not right to face the competition normally.

“For this reason, they have conveyed to AFE their opinion that the most appropriate thing would be to suspend the matchday, appealing to respect, mourning and sensitivity in the face of news that has caused a deep shock among colleagues.

“Once again, football has an opportunity to demonstrate that, above competitions, sporting and economic interests, and any other consideration, there are people.

“Because there are times when humanity, respect, and solidarity must take precedence over any competition.”

A LaLiga statement later confirmed this weekend’s matches will be dedicated to De Miguel, with a host of tributes in place.

The statement read: “LaLiga, RFEF and Liga F Moeve [the highest level of women’s football in Spain] along with clubs, players, and fans, will dedicate the next matchday to him to stand with his family, his teammates, and all the supporters of CD Tenerife.

“Before each match, a minute of silence will be observed in his memory, and in the 9th minute—his jersey number—the game will pause to honor him.

“The following matches have been postponed: CD Castellón – SD Eibar, Granada CF – CD Tenerife, and FC Andorra – RCD Mallorca from LALIGA HYPERMOTION, as well as Costa Adeje Tenerife – Deportivo Alavés from Liga F Moeve.

“United in grief and in remembrance.”

De Miguel’s passing has rocked Spanish football, with supporters gathering to place flowers in a vigil at the club’s stadium.

The 30-year-old father-of-one’s agent Manuel Hernandez issued a statement on behalf of the family.

It read: “Thank you for loving him, for remembering him and for being with us.

“We cannot find enough words to thank you for every message, every phone call and every gesture of affection we are receiving.

“Thank you to everyone who has remembered him – his colleagues, friends, supporters and all the clubs that have sent us their condolences and stood by us during this deeply painful time.

“Feeling such affection for Jesus and seeing the mark he has left on so many people is something we will always carry with us.”

Andorra stopper Owono was sent off for his challenge and is struggling to come to terms with what happened.

In a message released via his club, he said: “These are being the most difficult days of my life.

“I am struggling to find the words, and it is very hard for me to process anything that has happened.

“I feel immense pain over the loss of Jesus. I am thinking of him, his family, and all the people who loved him.

“I know there will be many matters to address, and I will face whatever comes with complete respect.

“But right now, honestly, I cannot think of anything other than Jesús and the grief we are experiencing.

“Rest in peace, Jesus.”

De Miguel’s family have asked for time to process the awful situation.

The statement added: “We need to grieve in the peace and quiet that this situation demands.

“We appreciate the affection, concern and expressions of support that his loss is inspiring, and we are deeply grateful to you all.”