Andorra’s goalkeeper, Jesus Owono, has been handed a 12-match suspension following a red card he received for a dangerous on-field incident that led to the tragic death of Tenerife striker Jesus de Miguel.
The disciplinary committee of the Spanish soccer federation announced the suspension for Owono on Friday, just ten days after De Miguel passed away, one day after their on-field collision.
The committee stated that Owono applied “excessive force” during the incident.
During the Nov. 2 match in Tenerife, De Miguel was pursuing a high ball in the midfield when he was hit in the chest by Owono, who had moved far out of his designated area. The 30-year-old De Miguel experienced cardiac arrest as a result of the collision and died the following day.
In a statement released through his club, Owono expressed his sorrow and extended his condolences to De Miguel’s family.
Spanish authorities have initiated an investigation into potential involuntary manslaughter. According to Spanish law, any deaths caused by non-natural events, including accidents, require judicial review; however, prosecutors have indicated that criminal charges are unlikely to be filed.
On Thursday, Andorra’s coach, Carles Manso, stated that it will be up to Owono to determine when he feels prepared to return to play.
“He is profoundly affected by the situation,” Manso remarked. “We will provide him with the necessary space to feel entirely at ease in deciding whether and when he may wish to come back.”