In the ever-evolving saga of Spanish women’s football, the plot thickens. Jenni Hermoso, the talismanic forward who starred in Spain’s triumphant Women’s World Cup campaign, has once again found herself at the center of the storm. The reason? An ill-fated kiss and the ensuing boycott that’s sent shockwaves through the Spanish football federation.
Hermoso, who played a pivotal role in Spain’s World Cup victory, expressed her frustration, saying that the recent call-ups of boycotting players by the new head coach, Montse Tome, signify that “nothing has changed” within the federation.
The turmoil began when the former federation president, Luis Rubiales, planted an unwanted kiss on Hermoso following the Women’s World Cup final. This inappropriate gesture led to Rubiales’ resignation, and subsequently, manager Jorge Vilda was shown the door.
Enter Montse Tome, the newly appointed head coach. She decided to call up 15 members of the World Cup-winning team for upcoming Nations League fixtures, but notably omitted Hermoso. Tome defended her decision, citing the need to “protect” the forward. However, Hermoso, ever the voice of reason, questioned this move. “Protect me from what? And from whom?” she asked, pointing out the glaring inconsistencies in the federation’s stance.
In a fiery statement, Hermoso accused the federation of resorting to “manipulation” to “intimidate” the players. It’s clear that the wounds from the World Cup kiss incident are far from healed, and the players remain steadfast in their boycott.
The situation is a sticky one for the federation. They’ve urged the striking players to return to the national team, emphasizing that they have an “obligation” to play if selected. Failure to do so could result in fines for the players and even the suspension of the federation’s licenses under Spain’s Sports Act.
But the players are resolute. They released a statement reiterating their boycott, expressing regret at being pushed into a situation they never wanted. They’re also exploring the possibility of legal action against being called up against their wishes.
Hermoso’s support for her fellow players is unwavering. She acknowledges that they’ve been caught off guard once again, but they’re determined to stand their ground. This is a fight for change within the Spanish football federation, and it’s being waged in a manner that’s gaining attention far beyond the football pitch.
Interestingly, this tumultuous period has also seen some surprising squad announcements. Alexia Putellas, a two-time Ballon d’Or winner, is among the players called up who were part of the World Cup-winning squad. Montse Tome, who took over from Vilda, has become the first woman to hold the position of Spain women’s boss.
The discontent within the squad is palpable, and it’s not limited to Hermoso and her supporters. Swiss forward Ana-Maria Crnogorcevic, who joined Atletico Madrid from Barcelona this summer, labeled the squad announcement as “disrespectful” and expressed disbelief at the federation’s actions.
As the Spanish government assures the players that changes will be made to address their concerns and increase female representation within the federation, the situation remains fluid and far from resolved.
In the midst of all this drama, one thing is clear: Spanish women’s football is at a crossroads, and the decisions made in the coming weeks and months will shape its future. Will it be a future where players are heard and respected, or will the tumultuous saga continue? Only time will tell.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Boycott
What led to the boycott of Spain’s women’s football team?
The boycott of Spain’s women’s football team was triggered by an inappropriate kiss between the former federation president, Luis Rubiales, and Jenni Hermoso after the Women’s World Cup final. This incident led to Rubiales’ resignation and the subsequent turmoil within the federation.
Why did new head coach Montse Tome call up boycotting players?
Montse Tome, the new head coach, called up boycotting players for upcoming Nations League fixtures, ostensibly to “protect” them. However, this move raised questions about its true intentions, especially since the players had been boycotting in protest against the federation.
How are the boycotting players responding to the call-ups?
The boycotting players remain steadfast in their stance, expressing regret that they were once again put in a position they never wanted to be in. They are also exploring potential legal implications of being called up against their wishes.
What is Jenni Hermoso’s role in this ongoing saga?
Jenni Hermoso, a key figure in the World Cup-winning squad, has been vocal about the federation’s actions. She accused the federation of using “manipulation” to “intimidate” players and questioned the need for protection.
What changes are the players demanding within the federation?
The boycotting players are demanding substantial changes within the federation, including reshaping certain departments. They want to ensure a safe and respectful environment within the team.
How is the Spanish government involved in this situation?
The Spanish government has assured the players that changes will be made within the federation to address their concerns. They are also emphasizing the need for greater representation of women within the organization.
What’s the future of Spanish women’s football amid this turmoil?
The future of Spanish women’s football remains uncertain as the players, federation, and government navigate this complex situation. The decisions made in the coming months will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of women’s football in Spain.
More about Boycott
- Spain Women’s Football Boycott: What You Need to Know
- Jenni Hermoso: Spain forward says ‘nothing has changed’
- Spanish Women’s Football Federation Faces Turmoil
- Spain Women’s Football: Players Stand Firm in Their Boycott
- Montse Tome Appointed as Head Coach
- Spanish Government Assures Changes in Women’s Football
2 comments
I supprt Jenni Hermoso, she’s speakin her mind and standin up 4 her team!
dis hole situation is nuts, they should jus play and git along!