Spanish footballer dies aged 30 after suffering cardiac arrest in on-field collision

Jesus de Miguel (Pic credit: Tenerife)

Spanish football was plunged into mourning after Tenerife striker Jesus de Miguel died aged 30 on Tuesday, a day after suffering a cardiac arrest following a collision with an opposition goalkeeper during a second-division match.De Miguel collapsed after a collision with FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono during Monday's match, which was abandoned in the seventh minute of stoppage time with the scores level at 2-2. The striker was rushed to hospital after receiving treatment on the pitch, but his condition deteriorated overnight.Tenerife confirmed his death in an emotional statement."Racked with pain, with a lump in our throats and unable to believe that this is true, from CD Tenerife we communicate the tragic passing of Jesus de Miguel Alameda," the club said."There are no words of comfort; there is absolutely nothing that can alleviate this feeling overflowing with sadness."The club also expressed solidarity with the striker's family and loved ones, adding: "We are with his devastated family, with his loved ones, with all the people of Tenerife who today mourn this cruel outcome."

What happened during the match?

The incident occurred when De Miguel appeared set to race away on a counter-attack in search of a late winner.

As a long ball dropped towards him near the halfway line, Owono rushed out of his area to clear it but struck the Tenerife forward in the chest with his knee.De Miguel initially rolled around in pain before becoming motionless, prompting medical staff to rush onto the pitch. He received treatment for more than five minutes as visibly distressed teammates watched on, with some appearing to break down in tears.According to Spanish media reports, the striker suffered a cardiac arrest while being transported to hospital and had to be revived inside the ambulance.Owono was initially shown a red card for the challenge before the referee abandoned the match. De Miguel was subsequently carried off on a stretcher to a standing ovation from spectators.

Football fraternity pays tribute

FC Andorra offered its condolences following the news, saying: "With broken hearts and devastated, we want to send our most sincere condolences to the family of Jesús de Miguel, to all his teammates, friends, and to CD Tenerife. Rest in peace."The Spanish Footballers Association (AFE) also expressed its "deepest sorrow", adding: "His loss leaves a huge void among those of us who shared his passion for football, his commitment to the footballers' community, and his work defending the rights of our fellow professionals."De Miguel joined Tenerife in 2025 and scored 11 goals in 30 appearances, helping the club secure promotion from Spain's third division as champions. He had previously played a key role in promotions for Internacional de Madrid and CD Castellón.His family thanked everyone for their messages of support and requested "maximum respect for his privacy" during the difficult time.