Spanish Police Investigate Death of Footballer Jesús de Miguel After On-Field Collision
Spanish police have opened an investigation into the death of footballer Jesús de Miguel following a collision with an opposing goalkeeper during a second-division match.
The Tenerife striker reportedly suffered cardiac arrest after colliding with Andorra goalkeeper Jesús Owono during Monday’s encounter. The incident occurred deep into stoppage time, forcing the referee to abandon the match with the score level at 2-2.
According to reports, De Miguel was challenging for the ball near the halfway line when Owono rushed out from the opposite direction in an apparent attempt to clear it. The goalkeeper struck the striker in the chest during the challenge.
Owono received a straight red card following the incident, while the match was subsequently abandoned.
Spanish Police Open Investigation
Spain’s National Police confirmed on Tuesday that an investigation had been opened into the footballer’s death.
The investigation is examining possible involuntary manslaughter. Under Spanish law, deaths resulting from non-natural causes, including accidents, are subject to judicial investigation.
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However, Santa Cruz de Tenerife chief prosecutor José Luis Sánchez-Jáuregui told Spanish news agency EFE that criminal proceedings were considered unlikely because the collision happened during active play.
The investigation will establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Jesús de Miguel’s Football Career
Born in Madrid, Jesús de Miguel began his senior football career with Leganés B in 2015.
He subsequently played for several lower-division clubs in Spain before joining CD Tenerife in 2025.
The footballer reportedly leaves behind his wife and daughter.
Tenerife and Andorra Pay Tribute
CD Tenerife expressed deep sadness following the death of its player, describing the loss as devastating for his family, teammates and the wider club community.
The club extended its condolences to his loved ones and said it stood with everyone affected by the tragedy.
Andorra FC, which is owned by former Barcelona midfielder Gerard Piqué, also issued a message of sympathy.
Piqué paid tribute to the late footballer in a post on X, expressing his sorrow and wishing him eternal rest.
Other clubs, the Spanish football federation and La Liga also joined the football community in mourning De Miguel.
The tragedy has brought renewed attention to the risks associated with physical challenges during competitive football matches, as the investigation continues to establish the circumstances of the fatal collision.
