The family of Jesus de Miguel said they would forever cherish the lasting impact he had on countless lives, speaking as the footballer’s funeral was held on Thursday.
The 30-year-old Tenerife forward passed away after sustaining a severe injury during a Segunda División match on Monday.
Following a collision with FC Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono, De Miguel remained motionless on the field while receiving medical attention before being transported to a hospital, where he died at 07:00 GMT on Tuesday.
Owono received a red card for the challenge, and the match was subsequently abandoned.
The funeral took place in Navahermosa, Toledo—the hometown of his parents—located approximately 125 kilometers from Madrid.
De Miguel’s Tenerife teammates carried his casket ahead of the service at San Miguel Arcangel.
Among the mourners were Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, Atletico Madrid chief executive Miguel Angel Gil Marin and former Real Madrid and Spain coach Jose Antonio Camacho.
Manuel Hernandez, De Miguel’s agent, issued a statement on behalf of the family:
“Thank you for loving him, for remembering him, and for standing with us.
“We lack the words to fully express our gratitude for every message, every phone call, and every gesture of affection we have received.
“The outpouring of love for Jesus, and the indelible mark he has left on so many lives, is something we will always carry with us.
“Jesus leaves a void that cannot be filled, but he also leaves behind cherished memories for all of us who were fortunate enough to share our lives with him.”
