The Spanish football community is in mourning following the tragic death of Tenerife striker Jesús de Miguel. He was 30 years old and had been in intensive care since suffering a cardiac arrest during a match against FC Andorra. De Miguel's condition deteriorated, and his death was confirmed by Tenerife on Tuesday. The club expressed their deep sadness and condolences to his family, friends, and fans.
De Miguel's critical condition resulted from a collision with FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono during the match at the Heliodoro Rodríguez López Stadium. The incident occurred towards the end of the game, with the score level at 2-2. Owono was sent off, and the match was abandoned. Spanish police have opened an investigation into the incident under judicial supervision.
Tributes have poured in from across Spanish and international football. Former Barcelona defender Gerard Piqué, who is also a majority shareholder of FC Andorra, expressed his sorrow, writing: "I am so deeply sorry. Rest in peace, Jesus." Other Spanish clubs, including Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atlético Madrid, have also paid their respects, alongside the Spanish Football Federation.
The Spanish Football Federation postponed Tuesday's matches in the Copa del Rey and Copa de la Reina as a gesture of respect and solidarity. UEFA has announced that a minute's silence will be observed before Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League matches this week. Several sporting figures, including Lionel Messi and Rafael Nadal, have also expressed their condolences.
Real Madrid coach José Mourinho described De Miguel's death as "shocking" and emphasized the impact it will have on the football community. He expressed his condolences to De Miguel's family and friends, as well as to Owono, who was involved in the incident. La Liga club Espanyol postponed the presentation of their new coach, Eder Sarabia, until Wednesday.
De Miguel joined Tenerife in the summer of 2025 from Castellón and helped the club secure promotion to Spain's second division. He began his career in Leganés' youth system before playing for several clubs, including Unionistas de Salamanca, and joining Castellón in 2023. La Liga president Javier Tebas and Spanish sports minister Milagros Tolón have also shared messages of condolence.
The football world continues to mourn the loss of Jesús de Miguel. His death serves as a reminder of the risks and uncertainties associated with the sport. The incident has sparked an outpouring of support and tributes from the football community, demonstrating the close bonds and solidarity within the sport.
Key points
- Jesús de Miguel, a 30-year-old Spanish striker, died on Tuesday after suffering a cardiac arrest during a match.
- The incident occurred after a collision with FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono, and an investigation has been opened under judicial supervision.
- Tributes have poured in from across Spanish and international football, with several clubs and figures expressing their condolences.
