FC Andorra manager Carles Manso has stated that goalkeeper Jesus Owono has not yet decided whether he will continue his football career following the death of Tenerife forward Jesus de Miguel. The 25-year-old goalkeeper was sent off after a collision with De Miguel during a Spanish second division match on November 2, and the forward died in the hospital the following day.
Supporting the player
Manso explained that Owono is currently spending time with his family to process the event. The manager emphasized that the club is providing the player with full support and the necessary space to make his own choice regarding his future in the sport.
“What we have to do is support him in every way and be close to him,” Manso said. “We will give him space so that he feels completely free to make any decision, whether he wants to return, when, or if he does not want to return. When he feels it is appropriate and when he feels genuinely ready to take a decision like that [he will do so].”
In a statement released by FC Andorra on November 4, Owono expressed the profound impact the incident has had on him, describing the period as “the most difficult days of my life.” He added, “I feel enormous pain over the loss of Jesus. I think of him, his family, and everyone who loved him.”
Support for the De Miguel family
Following the tragedy, a crowdfunding campaign was established by Hercules forward Fran Sol to assist the family of the late forward. The initiative has been highly successful, raising more than £170,000.
On Thursday, the family of De Miguel issued a statement through the Spanish Footballers’ Association to acknowledge the public response. “We would like to express our heartfelt thanks for all the expressions of affection and support we have received,” the family stated. “We have been deeply moved to see so many of you rally behind this initiative.”
FC Andorra is scheduled to resume competitive play this Saturday, facing Almeria in the Spanish second division.
