Spanish Footballers Demand Weekend Fixtures Be Suspended After De Miguel’s Death

Footballers across Spain have called for all weekend fixtures to be postponed following the death of Tenerife forward Jesús de Miguel, saying they are not in the right emotional and psychological condition to play.

The Spanish footballers’ union, Asociación de Futbolistas Españoles (AFE), made the appeal on Thursday, saying players across all divisions were united in demanding the suspension of matches as a mark of respect for the late footballer.

In a statement published on X, the union said the players were deeply affected by the loss and believed the circumstances did not permit normal competition to continue.

“The footballers have expressed their deep sorrow for this loss and do not believe that there are the psychological and humane conditions necessary for the competition to be played in normal circumstances,” the statement read.

Several fixtures have already been postponed following De Miguel’s death, including Tenerife’s meeting with Granada and Andorra’s clash with Mallorca. Some midweek cup matches were also called off.

However, Spanish clubs involved in European competitions honoured the late player with a minute’s silence before their matches this week.

De Miguel joined Tenerife in the summer of 2025, and his death has prompted tributes from players, clubs and other figures across Spanish football.

Andorra goalkeeper Owono, who paid tribute to the forward on Wednesday, expressed his grief over the loss.

“I feel enormous pain over the loss of Jesús. I think of him, his family, and everyone who loved him,” he said.

Owono described the period as “the most difficult days of my life”.

Meanwhile, supporters and mourners gathered at Tenerife’s Estadio Heliodoro Rodríguez López to pay their respects, laying flowers and lighting candles beneath a black-and-white photograph of the deceased player.

De Miguel’s family expressed gratitude for the messages of sympathy and support received from across the football community but appealed for privacy as they mourned.

“We need to grieve in the peace and quiet that this situation demands,” the family said.

“We appreciate the affection, concern and expressions of support that his loss is inspiring, and we are deeply grateful to you all.”

The AFE has urged Spanish football authorities to consider the players’ request and suspend the remaining weekend fixtures in honour of the Tenerife forward.