Players Dispute RFEF’s Allegations, Clarify Their Position on Coach and Commitment to National Team

Spain’s female footballers have denied requesting the removal of head coach Jorge Vilda, and they have expressed frustration with the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) for publicly disclosing their private concerns.

The RFEF had previously stated that 15 players had sent emails requesting not to be called up for the national team while Vilda remained in charge, citing negative impacts on their “health” and “emotional well-being.” The governing body also claimed these players had indicated they would no longer represent Spain unless changes were made to Vilda’s management approach.

Reports suggested that the players’ dissatisfaction with Vilda’s coaching methods intensified after Spain’s exit from the Euro 2022 quarter-finals against England. The RFEF warned that these players could face disqualification for up to five years unless they admit their actions were a mistake and apologise, threatening to replace them with younger players from the national team’s development squads.

In response, a collective statement was issued by the players via Barcelona’s Alexia Putellas and Manchester United’s Ona Batlle, stating, “We have never called for the dismissal of the coach,” adding that decisions regarding the coaching role were not within their remit. They also emphasised their disappointment with the RFEF’s choice to release private communication, which they said misrepresented their concerns.

The players clarified, “We have not renounced our place in the Spanish national team as the RFEF suggests. Our commitment to Spain remains strong and unwavering.” They explained that their decision to request not being called up was based on the need to protect their emotional and physical well-being, which they believed was being affected by the current circumstances. Their message also underlined their desire for a more professional project that prioritises the welfare of the players to achieve long-term success.

The statement concluded with a call for a more respectful approach, expressing regret that the issue had escalated publicly. “We refuse to tolerate the infantilising tone used by the RFEF in their statement. We want to move forward with ambition and professionalism, striving for personal and collective success.”

Meanwhile, two of the players involved, Laia Aleixandri and Leila Ouahabi, who play for Manchester City, shared the statement on social media. City manager Gareth Taylor, when asked about the situation, acknowledged having spoken to the players but emphasised he was not fully aware of all the details. He expressed support for his players and hoped the matter could be resolved for both them and the wider Spain squad.