Goalkeeper involved in fatal collision with Spanish footballer Jesus de Miguel given 12-MATCH ban – and may never return to football

The goalkeeper involved in the collision that killed Spanish footballer Jesus de Miguel has been hit with a 12-match ban – but may never return to the game.  

FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono has been hit with the sanction after a horrifying foul with Tenerife’s De Miguel earlier this month.

Owono was sent off and the match was abandoned with De Miguel, 30, admitted to intensive care, where he later died. 

The goalkeeper was subjected to chants of ‘murderer’ by Tenerife supporters and retreated from public view amid the significant backlash.

Now his manager Carles Manso has 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].

‘What we have to do is support him in every way and be close to ​him.’

Earlier this month, Owono issued a statement describing his ‘enormous pain’ following the tragic on-field collision. 

Owono said: ‘These are being the most difficult days of my life. I am struggling to find the words and find it very difficult to assimilate anything that has happened. 

‘I feel an enormous pain for the loss of Jesús. I think of him, his family, and everyone who loved him. I know there will be many issues to address; I will face whatever comes with the utmost respect. 

‘But right now, honestly, I cannot think of anything else except Jesús and the pain we are experiencing. Rest in peace, Jesús.’

 

More to follow.