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Spanish police are investigating involuntary manslaughter in death of Tenerife Jesús de Miguel, who suffered a cardiac arrest after an on-field collision.
FC Tenerife forward Jesús de Miguel collides with Andorra goalkeeper Jesús Owono during a soccer match in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain, Monday, Nov. 2, 2026. (Sergio Mendez/Diario de Avisos via AP)
Spanish police have opened an investigation into possible involuntary manslaughter following the death of Tenerife forward Jesús de Miguel, who suffered a cardiac arrest after colliding with Andorra goalkeeper Jesús Owono during a second-division match. He was 30.
The incident occurred in added time of Monday’s match, which was tied 2-2 when it was abandoned. De Miguel was attempting to reach a long ball near the halfway line when Owono rushed out of his area and struck him in the chest. Owono was shown a straight red card.
De Miguel initially dropped to his knees, holding his torso, before falling backwards onto the pitch. Owono turned around and joined the players who rushed to check on the forward. De Miguel was treated before eventually being taken to hospital.
The National Police confirmed on Tuesday that an investigation had been opened. Under Spanish law, deaths resulting from non-natural causes, including accidents, are subject to judicial investigation.
Tenerife announced De Miguel’s death and said the club was “heartbroken”. Its statement offered support to his family and loved ones. Spanish media reported that he is survived by his wife and daughter.
Andorra, owned by former Barcelona defender Gerard Piqué, also issued a condolence message. Piqué wrote on X: “I am sorry with all my soul. Rest in peace, Jesús.”
Real Madrid players observed a minute’s silence during training, while Espanyol postponed the presentation of its new coach. Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi were among those who expressed their condolences. Manchester United and Liverpool also posted messages.
The Spanish football federation postponed two Copa del Rey matches and one Copa de la Reina fixture scheduled for Tuesday.
De Miguel, a Madrid native, began his senior career with Leganés B in 2015 and represented several lower-division Spanish clubs before joining Tenerife last year.
Fatal injuries from on-field collisions remain rare in football. In Spain, 19-year-old goalkeeper Raúl Ramírez died last year after suffering head injuries in a fifth-division match. Ukrainian goalkeeper Serhiy Perkhun died in 2001 following a collision while playing for CSKA Moscow.
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Ask News18Jesús de Miguel suffered a cardiac arrest after colliding with Andorra goalkeeper Jesús Owono during a second-division match.
Ask News18November 03, 2026, 21:09 IST
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