Spanish football pays tribute as Tenerife’s Jesus de Miguel is laid to rest

The Spanish football community has come together in Navahermosa to mourn the death of Tenerife player Jesus de Miguel, whose funeral took place on Thursday following his sudden death at the age of 30.

Family members, friends, neighbours, team-mates, sporting representatives and others close to the player attended the service at the Church of San Miguel Arcangel.

De Miguel died on Tuesday after suffering a serious collision with the Andorra goalkeeper. His funeral became the focus of the Spanish football scene, with representatives from clubs, players’ organisations and the Spanish Football Federation among those paying their respects.

According to Marca, Sevilla were represented in Navahermosa by club ambassador Pablo Blanco and Giorgi Kochorashvili. Atletico Madrid representative Miguel Angel Gil Marin was also present, while Real Madrid were represented by Florentino Perez and Butragueno.

David Aganzo, president of the Association of Spanish Footballers (AFE), attended alongside Camacho, Trejo and other representatives of the players’ union.

Spanish Football Federation president Rafael Louzan and Spain manager Luis de la Fuente were also at the funeral.

Louzan said: “Thank you all. Today was about being here to support Jesus’ family. We stand in solidarity with you because I believe this is an irreparable loss.

“This tragedy must show us the path that still needs to be corrected regarding preventing the media, so that they are always in the right place. It is an extremely difficult day. The football world must stand together today.”

De la Fuente said: “I support the president’s words. With the greatest sadness and sorrow, we offer our deepest condolences and our sincere respect.

“It is the best way to show the unity of football. My heartfelt condolences go to all his loved ones.”

Delegations from two of De Miguel’s former and current clubs also attended the service. Castellon were represented by a group led by coach Pablo Hernandez, while Tenerife’s delegation was led by Alvaro Cervera and Erick Gallego.

The gathering in Navahermosa brought together figures from across Spanish football, as well as those who knew De Miguel personally, to support his family following his death.