UD Las Palmas manager Albert Sánchez acknowledged on Friday that he would have preferred not to play next Sunday’s match against CD Eldense following the death of Jesús de Miguel, a CD Tenerife player, but he argued that the decision is beyond their control and they must abide by it.
The Catalan manager explained that ever since they heard the «shocking news» on their return journey from Oviedo last Tuesday, it has not been an easy week «because life and people are what matter most», but he pointed out that they are professionals and must carry on with their work, «even though they are, understandably, affected» by the situation.
«My personal view is that the match shouldn’t go ahead, but there’s no point dwelling on something that’s beyond our control. We’re showing our support as a club and as individuals, but at the same time we have to train and prepare for Sunday’s match tactically, technically and mentally,» he explained.
UD Las Palmas: Sánchez attends memorial service for De Miguel
Sánchez has reiterated his support «for Demi’s family, Tenerife fans and the team» during this difficult time, and has confirmed that he will also be present at the tribute to be held this Saturday at the Heliodoro Rodríguez López Stadium, alongside the four captains of Unión Deportiva and members of the board of directors.
«We observed a minute’s silence before yesterday’s training session and the players feel a great deal of empathy for this situation, which has been an unprecedented tragedy given the way it has unfolded. We have decided to play in Tenerife’s colours and we will attend the tribute to show our support,» he said.
The Barcelona-born manager did not wish to comment on the incident in which De Miguel was injured, but he admitted that in football «it’s difficult to judge when to brake and when to go for it».
De Miguel: Matches are suspended in the ninth minute
Next Sunday’s match will be paused in the 9th minute, the number De Miguel wore, as will all other scheduled fixtures, and at that moment «there will be a very strong emotional response», particularly amongst those players «who played alongside De Miguel at some club or other», but he believes that everyone must «accept it, move on and carry on». EFE
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