Jesus de Miguel: Tributes paid across Europe to Tenerife striker

De Miguel had been at Tenerife for just over a season, having joined in the summer of 2025 from Castellon. The striker helped the team gain promotion to the second division.

The Spanish forward began his career with Leganes at youth level in the Madrid suburbs, playing for a string of teams, including Unionistas de Salamanca, before signing for Castellon in 2023.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said at a news conference the incident was “heartbreaking”.

“To see a colleague lose his life in such a manner, it’s beyond any words that I can put today,” said the Spanish coach.

Other sports stars, including retired Spanish tennis icon Rafael Nadal, Argentine great Lionel Messi, and Portugal legend Cristiano Ronaldo also left messages on Instagram.

“There are no words. My condolences and lots of strength to all his family and friends,” wrote Inter Miami forward Messi.

Nadal expressed a “terrible sadness” at De Miguel’s passing “from the bottom of my heart”.

“A tragedy. No words,” Ronaldo wrote.

“Lots of strength to the family. May he rest in peace.”

Former Barcelona defender Gerard Pique, who co-owns Andorra, said: “I am sorry with all my soul. Rest in peace, Jesus.”

De Miguel’s Tenerife team-mates also paid tribute on social media.

Midfielder Juanjo Sanchez said: “You let me into your heart, and you earned a place in mine, as we shared moments of laughter every single day and took walks barefoot after our training sessions.

“I cannot let this moment pass without highlighting what a wonderful person you are. You never had an unkind word or a sour expression for anyone, and you always displayed exemplary conduct, despite all the challenges you faced.

“You will always be with me, my friend.”

Striker Enric Gallego described De Miguel as “one of the best people” he has met, in an emotional statement.

“Thank you for everything we experienced together – for your camaraderie, your character, your humanity and the exemplary attitude you always showed,” he said.

“I feel very fortunate to have shared a locker room with you. I’m going to miss you so much.”

Forward Fran Sabina said: “There is no explanation or words that make sense of something like this.

“You were an important person in my life.

“We were lucky enough to share unforgettable moments, laughter, stories and experiences that today become memories that I will cherish forever in my heart.

“Thank you my friend. Thank you for every moment lived, for every shared experience, for the laughter, for your affection and, most of all, for this sincere friendship that we had.

“The appreciation we had was mutual. And that’s something neither time nor your absence can ever change.”