Tenerife’s number nine lives on in poignant tribute to Jesus de Miguel

Tenerife’s return to competitive football after the death of striker Jesus de Miguel became an emotional night of remembrance, as they beat Ceuta 2-0 in Spain’s second division.

The match at the Heliodoro Rodriguez Lopez was played in front of a large crowd, with tributes and messages honouring the Spanish forward, who died aged 30 after a tragic accident during Tenerife’s previous fixture.

De Miguel suffered serious injuries in the match against Andorra when he collided with goalkeeper Jesus Owono while challenging for a ball in the air. He was taken to intensive care but died in hospital the following morning, prompting widespread shock and grief across Spanish football.

Before kick-off, Ceuta’s players paid their respects by gathering at gate nine of the stadium, the number worn by De Miguel. A mural featuring his image stands at the entrance, providing the setting for a gesture of solidarity between the two clubs despite the importance of the match.

Tenerife captain Enric Gallego led the home side on to the pitch carrying a bouquet of flowers. His team-mates wore white shirts with the number nine and the words “We will always remember him”.

The players from both teams then formed a circle in the centre of the pitch for a minute’s silence in memory of their former colleague.

The tribute continued during the match. In the ninth minute, the crowd rose to applaud De Miguel, while a banner was displayed reading: “Jesus de Miguel, the eternal blue and white number nine.”

Tenerife supporters also sang a new song dedicated to the striker, called “De Miguel Te Quiero”. The chant reflected the affection felt for De Miguel and the determination of fans to preserve his memory. More than 15,000 people attended the match.

One of the most affecting moments came in the 40th minute, when Nacho Gil, wearing a black armband, lifted his former team-mate’s shirt. Gil was unable to hold back his tears, while players and supporters around him were visibly moved by the gesture.

The occasion therefore became more than Tenerife’s first league match since De Miguel’s death. Players, supporters and opponents united to honour the striker and underline the place he continues to hold at the club.

His number nine was repeatedly present throughout the evening – on shirts, banners and in the supporters’ applause – ensuring that Tenerife’s return to action also served as a collective farewell to a player whose death had left the club in mourning.