Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono has been handed a 12-game suspension by the Spanish soccer federation’s disciplinary committee after his on-field collision with Jesus de Miguel resulted in the death of the Tenerife striker. Jesus, 30, unfortunately passed away on November 12.
The disciplinary committee said Owono used “excessive force” in the collision.
“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’,” said the committee in a statement.
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“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.”
De Miguel was chasing a high ball in midfield when he was struck in the chest by Owono, who rushed far outside his area, near the end of the Nov. 2 match in Tenerife. The 30-year-old De Miguel suffered cardiac arrest following the collision. He died the next day.
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Following the incident, Owono issued a statement through his club and expressed grief over the incident. He also offered condolences to De Miguel’s family.
“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.”
Spanish police opened an investigation into possible involuntary manslaughter. Under Spanish law, deaths from non-natural causes, including accidents, are subject to judicial investigation, though prosecutors have said that criminal proceedings are unlikely.
On Thursday, Andorra coach Carles Manso said it will be up to Owono to decide when he feels ready to play again.
“He is deeply affected by the situation,” Manso said. “We will give him the space to feel completely free to decide whether, and when, he might want to return.”
(With Inputs From AP)
