Spain’s Women’s World Cup-winning squad will not be participating in September’s Nations League fixtures, despite recent changes in leadership. This decision comes after a letter signed by 81 Spain players, including the entire World Cup-winning squad, was released last month. The letter stated that they would reject call-ups to the national team until there was a change in the leadership of the Spanish football association (RFEF). The players described the actions of president Luis Rubiales as “violating the dignity of women.”
Jorge Vilda, the coach of the national team, was sacked just 16 days after the World Cup final. Rubiales, facing heavy pressure, resigned from his position as president of the RFEF earlier this week. The Spain squad is expected to release a statement later today explaining their decision to continue rejecting call-ups.
Despite the absence of the World Cup-winning squad, Spain is scheduled to play against Sweden and Switzerland in the Nations League on September 22 and September 26, respectively.
The controversy surrounding Rubiales stems from his actions following Spain’s World Cup victory over England. Rubiales kissed Jenni Hermoso, a player on the team, without her consent. Hermoso has spoken out about the incident, while Rubiales denies any wrongdoing. Additionally, Rubiales was seen grabbing his crotch in the stands after Spain’s win, for which he later apologized at the RFEF assembly.
Rubiales had initially resisted calls to step down from his role but ultimately resigned in September. Prior to his resignation, he had already been suspended by FIFA.
Following Vilda’s departure, Montse Tome, his former assistant manager, has been named as his permanent successor. Tome is set to lead the team during the upcoming Nations League fixtures.
This is not the first time that Spain players have rejected call-ups from the national side. Last year, a group of 15 players refused to make themselves available for selection until conditions improved. Talks with the RFEF took place before the World Cup, and eight of the 15 players eventually made themselves available for selection again. However, only three players, Ona Batlle, Aitana Bonmati, and Mariona Caldentey, were chosen to represent the national team.
The current situation highlights the ongoing issues within the Spanish women’s football setup. The players’ union, FutPro, has been vocal in advocating for change and addressing the treatment of women in the sport. The letter signed by the players demonstrates their unity and determination to bring about meaningful change within the RFEF.
As Spain prepares for their upcoming Nations League matches, the absence of their World Cup-winning squad will undoubtedly have an impact on their performance. However, it also serves as a powerful statement from the players, demanding respect and equality within the sport.
In conclusion, Spain’s Women’s World Cup-winning squad will not be participating in September’s Nations League fixtures due to their ongoing protest against the leadership of the RFEF. The controversy surrounding Rubiales’ actions and subsequent resignation have further fueled the players’ determination to bring about change. While their absence will undoubtedly affect the team’s performance, it serves as a powerful statement in the fight for equality and respect within women’s football.