Spanish police probe Tenerife striker's death after on-field collision
Navahermosa declared three days of mourning as Luis de la Fuente and Florentino Pérez attended the funeral.
By Jenna Mitchell ·
Tenerife striker Jesus de Miguel died on Tuesday after suffering a cardiac arrest during a match against Andorra on Monday. Spanish police have opened an investigation into possible involuntary manslaughter, a standard procedure for deaths deemed non-natural. Investigators will reportedly assess whether goalkeeper Jesus Owono's challenge went beyond the normal course of play.
Hundreds of mourners gathered in the central Spanish village of Navahermosa on Thursday for the funeral. De Miguel’s parents were reportedly born in the community, which has declared three days of mourning. Flags at the town hall remain at half-mast. A funeral car draped in flowers arrived at the local church, followed by dozens of attendees. Pallbearers carried De Miguel to the local cemetery after the mass.
Teammates traveled from the Canary Islands to pay their respects. Spain’s head coach Luis de la Fuente and Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez were also present. De la Fuente told reporters that the soccer community stands united. He described the moment as one of deep sorrow and genuine emotion, offering a warm embrace to the family.
The family’s statement, read by agent Manuel Hernandez, noted the affection De Miguel received. "Jesus leaves a void that is impossible to fill, but also cherished memories for all of us who were fortunate enough to share our lives with him," the family said. Hernandez called the event the last goodbye.
Owono released a statement on Wednesday describing the period as the most difficult days of his life. He said he struggles to find words and feels enormous pain at the loss. He added that he thinks of De Miguel, his family, and the people who loved him.
Club matches scheduled for this weekend have been postponed. Tenerife’s game against Granada and Andorra’s match with Mallorca will be rescheduled. On Saturday, fans are invited to Tenerife’s stadium to pay their respects. Las Palmas will play Eldense in blue and white colors on Sunday, typically the colors of Tenerife, in tribute.
