Investigation Launched After Soccer Player’s Death Following Collision in Match
BARCELONA, Spain — Spanish authorities have initiated an investigation into possible involuntary manslaughter after the tragic death of soccer player Jesús de Miguel, who passed away following an on-field collision with the goalkeeper of the opposing team during a second-division match.
The 30-year-old forward for Tenerife succumbed to cardiac arrest after the incident, his club confirmed on Tuesday.
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The incident occurred on Monday as De Miguel contested for the ball near midfield. He was struck in the chest by Jesús Owono, the FC Andorra goalkeeper, who rushed in an apparent attempt to clear the ball. The collision took place during added time, leading to Owono receiving a straight red card.
In a statement on Tuesday, the National Police of Spain disclosed the opening of an investigation. Under Spanish regulations, any death resulting from non-natural causes, including accidents, warrants a judicial inquiry.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife’s chief prosecutor, José Luis Sánchez-Jáuregui, commented to Spanish news agency EFE that criminal charges are unlikely, given that the incident occurred during active play.
De Miguel was immediately transported to a local hospital, while the match, which was tied at 2-2, was subsequently abandoned.
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The club, based in Spain’s Canary Islands, expressed their deep sorrow, stating they were “heartbroken.” Tenerife’s largest shareholder, Rayco García, mentioned that De Miguel’s family requested his remains to be taken to Navahermosa in the Toledo province, where teammates and club officials will honor him during a “final farewell.”
Fans are set to gather at the team’s stadium on Saturday to pay tribute to the late player, García confirmed.
“We will all join forces and get through this together,” he said.
Club president Felipe Miñambres acknowledged that the death has profoundly affected both players and their families, emphasizing the need for support from professionals and fans alike to help them cope.
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The overwhelming collision occurred as Owono charged from his area to midfield, attempting to challenge for a long ball that De Miguel was pursuing. Following the collision, De Miguel fell to the ground after initially showing signs of distress, clutching his torso for a few moments.
As Owono walked off the field, he turned back to check on De Miguel as other players rushed to respond.
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Originally from Madrid, De Miguel started his professional career with Leganés B in 2015 and played for various lower-division teams in Spain. He joined Tenerife just last year.
While local media did not indicate any pre-existing health conditions, the details regarding the specific medical cause of death have yet to be confirmed.
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Spanish reports noted that De Miguel leaves behind a wife and a daughter.
The club stated, “There are no words of comfort. There is absolutely nothing that can alleviate this profound sense of sorrow. We stand with his devastated family, his loved ones, and the entire Tenerife community.”
CD Andorra, owned by former Barcelona star Gerard Piqué, also expressed condolences, alongside other clubs and organizations within the Spanish soccer community.
In a statement, Andorra conveyed, “We wish to extend our deepest condolences to the family of Jesús de Miguel, to all his colleagues and friends, and to CD Tenerife. May he rest in peace.”
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Piqué shared his own sympathies on X, stating, “I am sorry with all my soul. Rest in peace, Jesús.”
During training, the players of Real Madrid observed a minute of silence in De Miguel’s memory, while Espanyol postponed the introduction of its new coach as a mark of respect.
Prominent soccer figures also took to social media, with Kylian Mbappé expressing his condolences by stating, “So much sadness. There are no words.” Lionel Messi added, “There are no words. My condolences and lots of strength to all his family and friends.” Both Manchester United and Liverpool also shared their sympathies online.
The Spanish soccer federation announced the postponement of all Copa del Rey and Copa de la Reina matches scheduled on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday in light of the tragedy. UEFA stated that a moment of silence would be observed at all matches this week.
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Life-threatening injuries from on-field collisions in soccer are rare. Last year, a 19-year-old goalkeeper died from head injuries sustained during a collision in a fifth-division match. Similar incidents in the past have also resulted in tragic outcomes.
