Some Spain players who have been boycotting team turn up for international duty

Several of the Spain women’s national team players who had previously declared a boycott have now returned for international duty. This surprising development comes in the wake of controversy surrounding the former president of the Spanish football federation, Luis Rubiales, who was seen kissing Jenni Hermoso after the Women’s World Cup final last month. Here’s the scoop on this intriguing turn of events.

Six players, all residing in Madrid, arrived at the Alameda Barajas Hotel in the capital city before heading to Valencia to rejoin the rest of the team. From there, they will continue their preparations for a crucial Nations League game against Sweden on Thursday. These six players consist of five from Real Madrid—Olga Carmona, Misa Rodriguez, Oihane Hernandez, Teresa Abelleira, and Athenea del Castillo—and Atletico Madrid forward Eva Navarro. Notably, they have all voiced their support for the boycott.

Interestingly, when goalkeeper Misa Rodriguez was asked by a reporter if she was happy to be back in the squad, she responded with a resounding “no.” It’s clear that the tension surrounding this situation still lingers.

Spanish journalist Guillem Balague points out that the players returned to duty partly due to the potential legal consequences of not showing up, which include being banned from the national team and facing fines. Negotiations are expected to continue as the players meet with the federation and government, as they have previously called for changes within the federation.

The saga took another twist when new head coach Montse Tome announced her squad for the upcoming Nations League fixtures, which notably excluded Jenni Hermoso, a key figure in the World Cup-winning side. Tome justified this omission by saying it was to “protect her.” However, Hermoso raised questions about inconsistencies, given that the federation had promised “a safe environment” just a day earlier. She criticized the federation for using “manipulation” to “intimidate” players and expressed solidarity with her fellow players who were caught off guard by this latest development.

Hermoso’s absence has added fuel to the fire, as she had started all seven matches in Spain’s triumphant Women’s World Cup campaign. Following the squad announcement, the boycotting players reaffirmed their stance and expressed their regret at being put in this situation once again. They also indicated their intention to explore the potential legal implications of being called up against their wishes.

The controversy began when 81 players initially boycotted the team in response to Rubiales kissing Hermoso after the World Cup final. Despite Rubiales resigning, 39 players announced that their strike would continue until further changes were made. The Spanish football federation had urged the striking players to return, emphasizing their “obligation” to play if selected.

This ongoing drama in Spanish women’s football highlights the deep divisions and issues within the sport. As new players are called up and the team moves forward, it remains to be seen how this turmoil will affect their performance and the future of women’s football in Spain.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Boycott Drama

What led to the boycott by some Spain women’s national team players?

Some Spain women’s national team players initiated a boycott after the former president of the Spanish football federation, Luis Rubiales, kissed Jenni Hermoso following the Women’s World Cup final last month. This action stirred controversy and prompted several players to take a stand.

Who are the players involved in this boycott?

The players involved in the boycott include Olga Carmona, Misa Rodriguez, Oihane Hernandez, Teresa Abelleira, Athenea del Castillo, and Eva Navarro. These six players initially boycotted the national team but later returned to international duty.

Why did these players return to international duty?

These players returned to international duty partly due to the potential legal consequences of not showing up, which could include being banned from the national team and facing fines. This compelled them to rejoin the team temporarily.

Why was Jenni Hermoso left out of the squad by the new head coach?

Jenni Hermoso, despite being a prominent figure in the World Cup-winning side, was left out of the squad by new head coach Montse Tome. Tome cited her omission as a means to “protect her.” However, Hermoso questioned this decision, given the federation’s promise of a “safe environment.”

What is the status of the player boycott and their demands?

The player boycott continues, with the boycotting players expressing regret at being put in this situation once again. They intend to explore the potential legal implications of being called up against their wishes. Their primary demand is for changes within the Spanish football federation.

How many players initially boycotted the team?

Initially, 81 players boycotted the team in response to the controversial kiss between Luis Rubiales and Jenni Hermoso after the Women’s World Cup final. This was a significant demonstration of their discontent.

What has been the response of the Spanish football federation and government to the player boycott?

The Spanish football federation had urged striking players to return to the national team, emphasizing their “obligation” to play if selected. The government has also hinted at applying legal measures if the players do not comply with their duties.

What are the broader implications of this controversy on women’s football in Spain?

This ongoing drama highlights the deep divisions and issues within women’s football in Spain. As the team moves forward with new players and a changing landscape, the controversy may have lasting effects on the sport’s development and its relationship with its players.

More about Boycott Drama