FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono considers retirement after tragic death

FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono is considering ending his football career at the age of 25 after being involved in the tragic incident that led to the death of Jesus de Miguel.

The Equatorial Guinea international is enduring what has been described as the most difficult period of his life, according to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo.

“Even though they keep telling him it was an accident, he is deeply sorry and profoundly affected, particularly by De Miguel’s widow and the one-and-a-half-year-old boy he left behind,” said Ana Maye, coordinator of the Equatorial Guinea men’s national team.

“He does not know how to deal with all of this.”

The impact has extended beyond Owono himself, with his entire family struggling to cope with the aftermath.

“His brother is being called a murderer. He is being reprimanded by his team-mates and even insulted by some parents,” Maye said.

“It is very difficult. His sister, who is a student at the University of Valencia, is also suffering because of this situation. They do not deserve this.”

Reports in Spain suggest the events have left Owono questioning whether he can continue playing football. He is understood to have considered abandoning the sport altogether.

“The challenge for Owono now is to accept that this was an accidental tragedy, overcome his feelings of guilt and, eventually, become a footballer again,” the reports said.

Maye said the priority was to give the family space while they deal with their loss and the public reaction.

“The most important thing is that the family is left alone for the time being,” she said.

“Their privacy must be respected. The whole family is suffering. Jesus needs time, help and rest to overcome this ordeal.”