RAPHINHA PAYS TRIBUTE TO JESúS DE MIGUEL AFTER BARCELONA WIN

Barcelona captain Raphinha has dedicated his team’s 3–0 Champions League victory over Aston Villa to the family of Tenerife striker Jesús de Miguel, saying the player’s death left him deeply shaken.

The Brazilian scored twice on Tuesday but declined to focus on his performance afterwards, instead offering condolences to De Miguel’s loved ones.

“Tonight I don’t want to talk about football,” he said. “I want to send a lot of strength to Jesús de Miguel’s family.”

De Miguel, 30, died in hospital on Tuesday morning after suffering cardiac arrest following a collision during Tenerife’s match against FC Andorra on Monday.

He received emergency treatment on the pitch before being taken to intensive care. The match was abandoned.

Raphinha said hearing the news had been difficult for him and his teammates, reflecting on the risks faced by fellow professionals.

“From myself and the club, we want to send a lot of strength to his family,” he said.

A minute’s silence was observed before Barcelona’s match, and the Champions League anthem was not played.

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick also expressed condolences, saying the squad had been affected by the news.

Tributes continued across European football, while Tenerife and De Miguel’s family requested privacy.