Jesús Owono, devastated and in shock after the unfortunate incident in Tenerife

Jesús Owono is facing severe criticism following a controversial defensive clearance during a recent match at the Heliodoro, leaving the Spanish-Guinean goalkeeper in a state of shock and deeply affected by the backlash.

The incident has drawn intense scrutiny because it evokes memories of a tragic event thirty-five years ago in Balaídos between Celta forward Baltazar and CD Málaga goalkeeper Gallardo, an event that resulted in the death of the Andalusian club’s goalkeeper. Close associates of Owono report that the 2001-born player is completely devastated by the fallout from the collision in Tenerife.

The Defense From Former Coaches

People close to the former Alavés player emphasize that while he recognizes his mistake in rushing off his line, attributing any malicious intent to the play is entirely baseless. Rubén Arce, who was a goalkeeping coach in the Alavés youth system and worked with Owono for multiple seasons, defended his former pupil’s character.

“He is a gentle giant, all heart, always looking out for others and ready to help with whatever you need,” Arce said. Describing Owono as an aggressive goalkeeper who plays off the line, Arce insisted that the player misjudged the situation rather than attempting to cause harm. Arce added that the player’s amiable nature means he is taking the incident so hard that a departure from football cannot be ruled out.

Toni Seligrat, who coached Owono in the Alavés reserve team, also dismissed suggestions of foul play. Seligrat noted that goalkeepers operate under immense pressure where high heart rates demand split-second decisions, describing the collision as an unfortunate, accidental occurrence rather than a deliberate foul.

Career Path From San Sebastián to Mendizorrotza

Born in San Sebastián in 2001, Owono moved to the Alavés youth setup from his native Gipuzkoa, advancing through the División de Honor ranks. He made his senior competitive debut for Alavés in January 2022 against Real Sociedad under manager Mendilíbar. Over three subsequent campaigns with the senior squad, he made 11 appearances, including 10 in the top flight.

After spending the previous season on loan at FC Andorra, Owono secured a permanent transfer in August to the club owned by Gerard Piqué. The fixture in Tenerife marked his sixth appearance for the side.

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