"I Never Wanted to Hurt Him": Andorra Goalkeeper Owono Speaks Out After Jesús de Miguel's Death

FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesús Owono has commented on the tragic incident during the match against Tenerife that was followed by the death of the home side's 30-year-old striker, Jesús de Miguel. The goalkeeper expressed his condolences to the player's family and insisted that he had never intended to cause him harm.

A statement attributed to Owono has been circulating on social media, in which the goalkeeper describes his emotional state following the incident.

"Honestly, I haven't slept since yesterday. I keep replaying that moment in my head, wishing I could turn back time. I never wanted to hurt him. It was a football incident, and I never imagined it would end in such a terrible tragedy.

People are calling me a murderer and a criminal on social media. I understand the anger and pain, but no one can be more devastated by what happened than those who were directly involved.

I deeply regret what happened and extend my condolences to Jesús de Miguel's family, his teammates, and everyone who loved him. I wish there were something I could do to change what happened, but unfortunately, there isn't.

I will never forget that moment. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. May Jesús rest in eternal peace."

The tragedy occurred on November 2, during the Spanish Segunda División Matchday 12 encounter between Tenerife and Andorra. Late in the match, Owono came off his line in an attempt to play the ball and collided with de Miguel, who suffered a heavy blow to the chest.

The striker lost consciousness and was rushed to hospital, where he was admitted to intensive care. On the morning of November 3, Tenerife announced the player's death. The match was suspended with the score at 2–2 and was not resumed.

According to Spanish newspaper AS, Owono received insults and threats on social media following the incident, prompting him to deactivate his Instagram account.

It should also be noted that Armenia national team striker Grant-Leon Ranos plays for Tenerife. He remained on the bench during the tragic match.