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Affected by De Miguel's death, Raphinha said he struggled to focus in UCL win

Barcelona forward Raphinha struggled to process the tragic death of Tenerife forward Jesús de Miguel before his team’s 3-0 UEFA Champions League victory over Aston Villa on Tuesday. De Miguel, 30, collapsed after a collision with Real Oviedo goalkeeper Jesús Owono on Monday, leading to a cardiac arrest.

The RFEF suspended all domestic matches in Spain for three days in mourning, though the Champions League fixtures proceeded. Raphinha, who scored twice in the win, later reflected on the emotional toll, calling De Miguel a fellow player and emphasizing the shared vulnerability of athletes.

The match at Camp Nou also honored De Miguel with a minute’s silence instead of the usual Champions League anthem. Despite the somber backdrop, Barça’s attack remained lethal, with Raphinha now leading Europe’s top five leagues in goals (19) this season.

Midfielder Rodri, however, left the game early with discomfort ahead of a crucial LaLiga clash with Atlético Madrid on Sunday.

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