Andorra goalkeeper Jesus Owono has again asked to contact the family of Tenerife player Jesus de Miguel, whose death he caused, but has been advised to give them more time to grieve.
Owono is still largely confined to his home and receiving treatment under the supervision of psychologists and doctors in Andorra, according to Marca. He has gradually begun to regain some strength, although he remains a long way from returning to anything resembling his normal life.
The goalkeeper has not yet resumed training and will only do so when he feels ready. He has asked Andorra to try to arrange a meeting with de Miguel’s family, either through a letter, a telephone call or a visit to Toledo.
Owono wants to share in their pain and offer his condolences in person. He has also told those close to him that he is available to support the family in any way they may need.
The 24-year-old had wanted to call the family on the day after the incident and discussed with his own relatives the possibility of attending the player’s funeral. However, officials at Andorra and people close to him advised him to wait longer before taking such a step.
Andorra have since contacted Tenerife to discuss the situation. Club officials have asked for further time to be allowed, in order to respect the family’s mourning period. For now, any meeting will have to wait until the family has regained as much emotional stability as possible.
Owono’s own mental state also remains difficult. He does not yet know when he will be able to return to training or play alongside his team-mates again.
Support from Andorra and Tenerife
Former Barcelona defender Gerard Pique continues to support Owono and visits him regularly. The goalkeeper’s mother and partner are also staying at his home to accompany him through what has been described as an extremely difficult period.
His team-mates have been visiting almost every day to check on him and see how he is coping.
Both Tenerife and Andorra are handling the situation with considerable sensitivity and caution. Their approach has been described as an example of how such circumstances can be managed through sound judgement and reason.
The Spanish Football Federation has also begun providing support. It is continuing to monitor Owono’s condition and that of his Andorra team-mates, while also following the situation involving Tenerife’s players.
Its assistance has been provided away from the spotlight, but the federation has not overlooked the difficulties being faced by those affected.
