On Monday, Spain’s women’s national team coach Jorge Vilda announced a fresh call-up list. A notable element was the return of Jenni Hermoso, signaling support for the so-called rebels who were excluded in earlier convocations while Vilda’s leadership remains under scrutiny by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).
Despite ongoing rumors, the coach did not manage to bring back any of the 15 players who had previously raised concerns and who also drew backing from former captain Irene Paredes. Paredes did not sign the joint statement but expressed solidarity with teammates such as Alexia Putellas, who has faced a long-term injury and health challenges.
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Hermoso, who currently wears the Pachuca jersey, has publicly shown solidarity with her teammates. She commented on understanding their reasons and having experienced many similar emotions and concerns. While she may not agree with every action, she emphasized empathy and the sense that certain actions were necessary to move forward.
months of conflict
The dispute began on September 22, when 15 national team players sent multiple emails to the RFEF urging Vilda not to be called up, citing concerns about health and emotional well-being. At that time they argued the federation could not guarantee their full protection while representing Spain.
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Several players were involved in calls for a broader Nations Cup, a friendly tournament seen as an opportunity to advance World Cup preparations in Australia and New Zealand this summer.
THIS YEAR’S EVENT! We will compete with this squad in Turkey. #CupOfNations
✈️ We are traveling to the venue where the tournament will be staged this summer. #FIFAWWC you #PlayFightAndWin
— Spanish Women’s Football Team (@SEFutbolFem) February 6, 2023
Australia will host the present set of warm-up matches, with Spain scheduled to face the local side in Newcastle on February 16, Jamaica on February 19, and the Czech Republic in Sydney on February 22.
roster list
goalkeepers: Misa Rodríguez, Enith Valencia and Elena Lete.
defenses: Ivana Andrés, Rocío Gálvez, María Méndez, Sheila García, Oihane Hernández, Olga Carmona, Paula Tomás, Bibiane Schulze and Laia Codina.
midfielders: Maite Oroz, Irene Guerrero, Teresa Abelleira, Marta Carro, Claudia Zornoza and Fiamma Benítez.
forwards: Marta Cardona, Jenni Hermoso, Alba Redondo, Athenea del Castillo, Salma Paralluelo, Esther González and Eva Navarro.