At the Ciudad del Fútbol de Las Rozas, a gathering of regional federation presidents stretched into the late afternoon as they debated the future of Jorge Vilda. The meeting, lasting nearly six hours, drew a full quorum of regional leaders and showcased sharp disagreements about leadership continuity. Public statements from world champion players, alongside remarks from Vilda and Luis Rubiales, hinted that both sides would be prepared to part ways if the other persisted with the current setup. With two weeks until key matches that would influence the transition to the Paris Olympic cycle, doubts about team stability lingered. A lack of trust among 23 World Cup players and 12 others not selected underscored the precarious path ahead. Some reform-minded players from the World Cup did not make the squad, highlighting tensions within the squad’s leadership and direction.
RFEF barons demand the heads of Rubiales’ three top aides: Camps, González Cueto, and García Caba
The regional presidents stood apart from Luis de la Fuente in believing that a leadership change was necessary. Pedro Rocha confirmed that Rubiales’ 90-day FIFA sanction kept the chairing of the meeting in Rubiales’ absence, leaving district leaders with limited authority because the federation’s accountability lies with the board of directors. The RFEF explored options to address leadership within contractual and legal constraints, aiming to fulfill governance duties while navigating internal power dynamics and maintaining operational stability.
Rubiales’ four-year plan valued at half a million euros annually
Vilda attracted significant attention for applauding Rubiales during an extraordinary assembly. Rubiales, for his part, proposed extending the coach’s contract with four additional renewals. During his remarks, the coach acknowledged the criticisms and stated that the current situation was unacceptable and did not reflect his personal or sporting values. He condemned any non-palliative macho behavior that runs counter to a modern, inclusive society. The message was clear, yet it did little to reassure those seeking continuity in leadership.
Another focal point was the terms of the contract, including how a potential dismissal would be handled and the obligations toward sponsors once a decision was reached. Rubiales announced that arrangements had been made with the federation secretary to enable Vilda to remain for four years at an annual salary of half a million euros. Some interpreted this as a tacit renewal, with the agreement potentially hinging on Vilda’s confirmation, discreet assurances among close aides, and the broader leadership circle.
Previously, Vilda’s contract ran through June 2024, ahead of the World Cup and the European Championship campaign in England in the summer of 2022. Signed before those tournaments, the agreement would be revisited in light of the team’s performance and ongoing disputes. The final decision rested with the coach, leaving open the question of whether public statements or private assurances would prevail in the end.
Vilda’s potential destination could be Saudi Arabia
As the Spain women’s program entered a period of transition, Vilda faced a pivotal decision about his next step. He has shown steadfast support for Rubiales within Spain, a stance that could affect his domestic standing. In the broader European and Middle Eastern coaching market, opportunities abroad have gained attention. Saudi Arabia emerged as a possible landing spot, driven by renewed investments in women’s football and a broader push to elevate the sport in the region. Reports indicated that the country might pursue a high-profile appointment to accelerate development and competitiveness in women’s football, potentially appointing a coach with substantial credentials from international leagues.
The coaching landscape in the region has been shifting, with Saudi Arabia signaling intent to reshape its approach to both men’s and women’s teams. Names connected to the wider ecosystem surfaced in discussions about possible roles, including coaches with global experience who could help build a more competitive environment. If Vilda pursued this path, it would mark a significant turn in his career and could influence Spain’s national program as leadership and strategy recalibrate on the international stage.