The football community is in mourning following the death of Tenerife striker Jesus de Miguel. The forward sustained head and chest injuries in a collision with goalkeeper Jesus Owono during a Spanish second division match against FC Andorra on Monday.
De Miguel's condition was initially reported as stable but serious, but his health deteriorated Tuesday morning, and he died at 7 a.m. GMT. A minute's silence was observed before Tuesday evening's Champions League matches across Europe, with similar tributes planned for Wednesday's Europa League and Conference League fixtures.
Flowers and candles were placed at Tenerife's Estadio Heliodoro Rodriguez Lopez, the club's home ground, where a black and white image of de Miguel was displayed. Tenerife announced six official days of mourning, suspending all club activities during this period. Players, staff, and officials will attend de Miguel's funeral in Navahermosa, Toledo. The club also plans to open its home stadium on Saturday evening to allow supporters to bid farewell.
The collision occurred seven minutes into stoppage time with the score tied 2-2. Owono appeared to collide with de Miguel while attempting to clear a long ball. De Miguel lay motionless on the pitch and was taken by ambulance to a hospital. Players from both teams were visibly distressed, with several of de Miguel's teammates in tears.
Spanish police have opened an investigation for possible involuntary manslaughter, a standard procedure under Spanish law for non-natural deaths. However, authorities stated that criminal proceedings are considered very unlikely. The referee issued Owono a straight red card before abandoning the match. The goalkeeper has since deactivated his social media accounts.
Condolences have poured in from across the football world. Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho described the incident as "very, very difficult" for Owono and "shocking for the world in general." Barcelona forward Raphinha sent his condolences to de Miguel's family. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta called the incident "heartbreaking." Legendary figures such as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, as well as former Barcelona defender Gerard Pique, who co-owns FC Andorra, shared messages of sympathy.
De Miguel joined Tenerife in the summer of 2025 from Castellon and helped the team gain promotion to the second division. He began his career in Leganes' youth system and played for several other clubs before moving to Castellon in 2023.
Tenerife teammates have also paid heartfelt tributes. Midfielder Juanjo Sanchez described de Miguel as a "wonderful person" and "a friend," while striker Enric Gallego called him "one of the best people" he has met. Forward Fran Sabina expressed gratitude for their "sincere friendship."