A group of 20 Spanish players are steadfast in their strike stance, despite receiving call-ups to join new head coach Montse Tome’s inaugural squad. Jenni Hermoso, one of the eight members of Spain’s Women’s World Cup-winning squad, remains absent from the squad after Tome cited her exclusion as a measure for her ‘protection.’
Hermoso did not secure a place in Spain’s first squad since clinching the Women’s World Cup title. However, 15 of her fellow championship-winning teammates found themselves named in the 23-player roster unveiled on Monday, despite having previously announced a boycott last month.
This controversy stems from RFEF President Luis Rubiales, who kissed midfielder Hermoso on the lips during Spain’s celebration of their World Cup final victory against England on August 20. Hermoso has insisted that she did not give consent for the kiss.
Several players from Spain’s Women’s World Cup-winning squad, who had previously threatened to boycott the national team in an effort to combat sexism and gender inequality, reported for training on Tuesday, facing the possibility of sanctions.
Misa Rodriguez, Olga Carmona, Oihane Hernandez, Eva Navarro, and Tere Abelleira, who had previously stated their refusal to play for the team until significant changes were implemented within the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), arrived at a hotel near Madrid’s airport.
Despite having signed a statement last week calling for more changes within the RFEF, beyond just Rubiales and former coach Jorge Vilda, these five players were included in the squad for an upcoming Women’s Nations League match against Sweden by new coach Montse Tome.
When asked upon her arrival at the hotel if she was pleased to be selected for the team, Rodriguez responded with a curt “No.”
Spain performance and stats
Spain is currently playing the Euro Qualification. It won its previous match 6-0 against Cyprus.
