Spanish police have launched an investigation into possible involuntary manslaughter after Tenerife footballer Jesus de Miguel, 30, tragically died following an on-pitch collision

Spanish police have launched a "routine" investigation into possible involuntary manslaughter following the tragic death of Tenerife footballer Jesus de Miguel. The striker passed away after collapsing during a match on Monday.

The 30-year-old died on Tuesday after suffering a cardiac arrest, having been involved in an on-pitch collision with opposition goalkeeper Jesus Owono.

The tragic incident took place during Tenerife's clash against Andorra in LaLiga HyperMotion, Spain's second division. The two players came together in a sickening collision on the halfway line, as De Miguel chased a ball played over the defence while Owono rushed out to intercept it, appearing to catch his opponent in the chest.

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The forward was left motionless on the pitch, with his team-mates quickly realising the severity of the situation and calling for immediate medical attention. The goalkeeper was subsequently shown a red card for the challenge.

De Miguel was rushed to hospital, where his condition deteriorated overnight before he tragically passed away the following morning, aged 30.

Spain's National Police confirmed on Tuesday that proceedings had been formally opened, with prosecutors also expected to be involved in the case. Authorities in the Canary Islands stressed that launching such an investigation was standard procedure in circumstances of this nature.

"Racked with pain, with a lump in our throats and unable to believe that this is true," Tenerife said when announcing the devastating news. "There are no words of comfort; there is absolutely nothing that can alleviate this feeling overflowing with sadness.

"We stand alongside his devastated family, alongside his loved ones... that today weep for this cruel outcome.

"The family of Jesus de Miguel thanks each and every one of the expressions of support received, and likewise requests, from the heart, the utmost respect for their privacy in these terrible moments."

In a statement posted on X, Andorra said: "With broken hearts and devastated, we want to send our most sincere condolences to the family of Jesús de Miguel, to all his teammates, friends, and to CD Tenerife. Rest in peace."

Andorra also confirmed that the collision was accidental and offered support to their player, who was reportedly left in tears and praying in the dressing room following the tragic incident.

They added in a further statement: "There are no words of comfort; there is absolutely nothing that can alleviate this feeling overflowing with sadness. We stand alongside his devastated family, alongside his loved ones, alongside all of tinerfenismo that today weeps for this cruel outcome.

"The family of Jesus de Miguel thanks each and every one of the expressions of support received, and likewise requests, from the heart, the utmost respect for their privacy in these terrible moments."