Spanish coach Jorge Vilda unveiled the 23-player squad that will represent the national team at the Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, a tournament scheduled from July 20 to August 20. The group will be guided by double Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas as the tournament approaches, bringing together a mix of experienced internationals and rising talents.
The final selection features goalkeepers Misa Rodríguez, Enith Salon, and Cata Coll; defenders Irene Paredes, Ivana Andrés, Ona Batllé, Olga Carmona, Oihane Hernández, Rocío Gálvez, and Laia Codina; midfielders Alexia Putellas, Teresa Abelleira, Aitana Bonmatí, Irene Guerrero, María Pérez, and Claudia Zornoza; and forwards Mariona Caldentey, Eva Navarro, Salma Paralluelo, Athenea Del Castillo, Lucía Redondo, and Esther González. These players are set to defend the Spanish colors on football’s biggest stage.
Vilda conducted a preliminary press conference on June 12 to announce his 30-player roster. Among those who had previously stepped away from the national team months earlier, three returned: Ona Batlle, Aitana Bonmatí, and Mariona Caldentey. Alexia Putellas also rejoined the group after recovering from a crusader injury that sidelined her for nearly a year. This return adds substantial leadership and top-level experience to the squad as the World Cup approaches.
It is time for the team to shine. The squad’s formation, depth, and versatility across all lines mark a strong statement of intent for the competition. The national team’s supporters are hopeful for a deep run, with optimism fueled by the blend of seasoned veterans and energetic youngsters ready to contribute on the biggest stage.
✨ The enthusiasm spans generations. The rallying cry is clear: play hard, fight, and win. #FIFAWWC
— Spanish Women’s Football Team (@SEFutbolFem) 30 June 2023
Seven players omitted by Vilda
Several players who had previously written letters to the Royal Spanish Football Federation declaring themselves unavailable were not recalled to the World Cup squad. Names such as Patri Guijarro, Mapi León, Sandra Paños, Lola Gallardo, Ainhoa Moraza, Leila Ouahabi, Lucía García, Laia Alexandri, Claudia Pina, Andrea Pereira, Nerea Eizaguirre, and Amaiur Sarriegi were not included this time. While some of these players indicated a desire to return, Vilda chose not to bring them back to the squad for this tournament.
From the initial list of 30 players, others who did not make the final cut included Elena Lete, Jana, Fiamma Benítez, Maite Oroz, Imma Gabarro, and Marta Cardona. Shelía García, who had been confirmed as part of the squad, was unable to participate due to ongoing knee issues that hindered her recovery for several months.
Here are the 23 players who were called up to the World Cup:
goalkeepers
- Misa Rodríguez
- Enith Salvado
- Cata Coll
defenders
- Irene Paredes
- Ivana Andrés
- Ona Batlle
- Olga Carmona
- Oihane Hernández
- Rocío Galván
- Laia Codina
midfielders
- Jenni Hermoso
- Teresa Abelleira
- Aitana Bonmatí
- Alexia Putellas
- María Pérez
- Irene Guerrero
- Claudia Zornoza
front
- Mariona Caldentey
- Eva Navarro
- Salma Paralluelo
- Athenea Del Castillo
- Lucía Redondo
- Esther González