Andorra goalkeeper Owono gets time to think about his future after tragedy

FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono has time to decide if he wants to play football again after the death of Tenerife forward Jesus de Miguel.

Owono, 25, was sent off during a Spanish second division match on November 2 after colliding with De Miguel. The Tenerife player died in the hospital the next day.

Andorra manager Carles Manso said the Equatorial Guinea international is with his family right now. He has the club’s full support as he thinks about what to do next.

Manso made it clear that Owono will not be rushed into deciding about his return to football. He said, “What we have to do is support him in every way and be close to him.”

He continued, “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.”

Andorra shared a statement from Owono on November 4. In it, the goalkeeper called this time “the most difficult days of my life.” He also expressed his sadness over De Miguel’s death. He said, “I feel enormous pain over the loss of Jesus. I think of him, his family, and everyone who loved him.”

Meanwhile, De Miguel’s family thanked everyone who helped with a crowdfunding campaign for his relatives. The campaign, started by Hercules forward Fran Sol, has raised over £170,000. All the money is going to De Miguel’s family.

In a statement through the Spanish Footballers’ Association on Thursday, the family showed appreciation for the support they received. They said, “We would like to express our heartfelt thanks for all the expressions of affection and support we have received.”

They added, “We have been deeply moved to see so many of you rally behind this initiative.”

Andorra is set to play again on Saturday against Almeria in the Spanish second division. This will be their first match since De Miguel’s death.