FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono has been suspended for twelve games by the Disciplinary Committee of the Spanish Football Federation over the foul that led to the death of CD Tenerife striker Jesus de Miguel. The committee's ruling states: "Twelve games is the maximum suspension provided for in the disciplinary code for the incidents described in the referee's report."
The incident occurred during a 2-2 draw between FC Andorra and CD Tenerife on November 2 in the Spanish second division. De Miguel died in hospital the following day at the age of 30 after suffering a cardiac arrest following a particularly harsh foul from Owono, who was shown a red card for the tackle. De Miguel received treatment on the field before being carried off on a stretcher.
Referee Manuel Angel Perez Hernandez noted in his report that Owono had used excessive force during the incident.
The Spanish police homicide division has launched an investigation into the goalkeeper, reportedly examining possible negligent homicide, according to the AP news agency. However, Tenerife's chief prosecutor, Jose Luis Sanchez-Jauregui, has said it is highly unlikely that criminal charges will be filed in connection with the incident.
Owono has been deeply affected by de Miguel's death. According to the newspaper Marca, the goalkeeper is currently under the care of the club's psychologists and doctors. Andorra's coach, Carles Manso, has denied Spanish media reports suggesting the 25-year-old Owono is considering retiring. Andorra are set to face UD Almería in a second-division match on Saturday.
