Spanish players seek match postponements over Jesús de Miguel’s death.

Jesus de Miguel joined Tenerife in 2025 on a three-year deal Photo: ALAMY

Spanish footballers have called for all weekend matches to be postponed following the death of Tenerife player, Jesús de Miguel, saying there are no suitable psychological or emotional conditions for games to go ahead.

The Spanish footballers’ union, AFE, made the request on Thursday on X, saying players across all divisions were unanimous in their call to suspend the fixtures out of respect for the late footballer.

In a statement, the union said, “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.”

Tenerife’s match against Granada and Andorra’s fixture against Mallorca have already been postponed, while several midweek cup matches were also called off following De Miguel’s death.

However, Spanish clubs participating in European competitions played their matches this week, with a minute’s silence observed at all games in his memory.

De Miguel joined Tenerife in the summer of 2025. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across Spanish football.

Andorra goalkeeper Owono, who paid tribute to the deceased player on Wednesday, described the loss as devastating.

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

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Owono added that he was experiencing “the most difficult days of my life”.

Meanwhile, mourners gathered at Tenerife’s Estadio Heliodoro Rodriguez Lopez, where Monday’s match took place, to lay flowers and light candles beneath a black-and-white image of De Miguel.

The player’s family expressed gratitude for the messages of sympathy and support but appealed for privacy as they cope with the loss.

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

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

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente and Real Madrid president Florentino Perez were among those who attended De Miguel’s funeral.

The AFE is now urging the Spanish football authorities to heed the players’ request and postpone all remaining weekend fixtures as a mark of respect.