The Spanish women’s national team travels for two spring friendlies in Ibiza this month. On April 6 they meet Norway, followed by a clash with China on April 11. The matches mark a continued phase of preparation on European soil for a squad aiming to make a strong statement on the road to major tournaments. The coaching staff led by George Vilda has brought back Irene Paredes to the fold, a move welcomed by fans and analysts who view her as a key pillar in defense. In addition to the headline return, a broad list of players rounds out the squad, highlighting a mix of experienced internationals and newer call ups.
This is a big moment for the team as they resume international duties with back to back tests against high level opposition in a familiar venue. The selection was shared publicly with enthusiasm, underscoring the importance of these April fixtures for team cohesion and tactical experimentation. The schedule aligns with the broader calendar that sees teams balancing friendlies with competitive fixtures, all important for gauging form and readiness for upcoming championships.
We now look at the full list of players entrusted with these duties. The goalkeepers chosen are Misa Rodríguez, Enith Salón, and Elene Lete. In defense, the coach trusts Ivana Andrés, María Méndez, Sheila García, Olga Carmona, Paula Tomas, Laia Codina, Irene Paredes, and Jana Fernández to marshal the back line. The midfield includes Maite Oroz, Irene Guerrero, Tere Abelleira, Jenni Hermoso, Claudia Zornoza, and Fiamma Benítez, providing a balance of creativity and ball recovery. The attack features Alba Redondo, Athenea del Castillo, Salma Paralluelo, Esther González, Eva Navarro, and Ascensión Martinez, offering a mix of pace, goal threat, and link play.
Why some players are not part of the call-up
Fifteen players have stepped away from the national team over ongoing issues with the head coach. The departures include Ainhoa Moraza, Patri Guijarro, Leila Ouahabi, Lucía García, Mapi León, Ona Batlle, Laia Aleixandri, Claudia Pina, Aitana Bonmatí, Andrea Pereira, Mariona Caldentey, Sandra Paños, Lola Gallardo, Nerea Eizaguirre, and Amaiur Sarriegi. This group has cited differences with management as part of their decision to resign from the current call-ups. The squad will continue to rely on the broader pool of players to compete in April and beyond, while momentum and leadership from veteran figures will shape the team culture.
Although a renowned star in the injury list, Alexia Putellas has publicly shown support for her teammates. Her absence due to injury leaves questions about whether she might have joined the squad in another circumstance, but at present she remains unavailable for selection. The team moves forward with the assigned players, aiming to showcase a strong performance against two formidable opponents in Ibiza, with a view toward continued progress ahead of major international opportunities.
Source: Goal