An island in mourning: Tenerife processes death of De Miguel

Tenerife is in mourning following the death of footballer Jesus de Miguel, who passed away from injuries sustained in a collision during a match on Monday. The 30-year-old had quickly become a beloved figure for the Tenerife club, scoring 11 goals in his first season as the team was promoted to the second tier of Spanish football.

A shrine has formed outside Heliodoro Rodriguez Lopez Stadium, where fans and residents have gathered to lay flowers, light candles, and pay their respects. Tributes include bouquets, rosettes, prayer cards, and even children's drawings. Football fans Lisa and Lee, who visited the island for the match, described the sombre atmosphere inside the stadium, with many visibly tearful upon learning of the tragedy.

For Carlos, a Tenerife Foundation player, De Miguel was a club legend who had helped the team recover from a difficult period. The Canary Islands' minister for education and sport, Poli Suarez, said Tenerife was in "complete mourning," with the club described as "broken" and "absolutely heartbroken." The government has pledged its support, and a further tribute is planned for Saturday at 18:00 GMT.