Equatorial Guinea international goalkeeper Jesús Owono has been handed a 12-match suspension by the Spanish football federation’s disciplinary committee following the incident that led to the death of Tenerife striker Jesús de Miguel.
The FC Andorra goalkeeper was sent off during a Spanish second-division match on November 2 after colliding with De Miguel while attempting to clear an aerial ball.
As previously reported by the Intercept Nigeria, Owono’s leg struck the striker on the head during the challenge, leaving the 30-year-old in critical condition. De Miguel later died in hospital on November 3.
Announcing its decision on Friday, the disciplinary committee said the referee’s report recorded the reason for Owono’s dismissal as follows:
“The assessment of the conduct under consideration in these proceedings must be based on the facts expressly recorded in the referee’s report, which states that the player was sent off for ‘violently striking an opponent in the chest with his leg, using excessive force, while the ball was in play’.”
The committee acknowledged the fatal outcome of the incident, adding that the circumstances justified the maximum punishment available.
“The tragic outcome of the incident, resulting in the death of Jesus de Miguel Alameda, is public knowledge.
“In view of the nature of the conduct described and the accompanying circumstances… the maximum sanction, 12 matches of suspension, is justified.”
The punishment comes days after reports emerged that Owono was struggling emotionally following the striker’s death, with a close friend revealing that the 25-year-old was considering walking away from professional football.
In a statement released through FC Andorra after the incident, the goalkeeper described the period as one of the most difficult moments of his life.
“These are the hardest days of my life. I struggle to find the words and it is very difficult for me to process anything that has happened,” said Owono in a statement published by his club Andorra last week.
“I feel immense pain over the loss of Jesus. I think of him, of his family, and of all the people who loved him.
“I know there will be many issues to address, and I will face whatever comes with the utmost respect. But right now, honestly, I cannot think about anything other than Jesus and the pain we are going through. Rest in peace, Jesus.”
FC Andorra coach Carles Manso said on Thursday that Owono would decide whether and when he was ready to return to football.
Meanwhile, Spanish police have opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident under judicial supervision.
De Miguel was laid to rest last Thursday, with around 400 mourners attending his funeral, including Spain coach Luis de la Fuente and Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez. Tenerife supporters and players also gathered at the club’s stadium on Saturday to pay their final respects to the late striker..
