Spanish women’s football team: 15 players ask to not be selected amidst well-being concerns

The Spanish women’s football team has seen 15 players asking to step down from national team selection due to emotional and mental well-being. As many as 15 players sent an email to the Spanish Football Federation, asking not to be called up until head coach Jorge Vilda is dealt with. 

The players appear to have an issue with his team selection, training procedure, management of injuries and locker room atmosphere under Vilda. 

Spanish women’s football team: 15 players step down 

“These types of manoeuvres are far from exemplary and outside the values of football and sport,” the RFEF said. “Making those decisions does not fall within their powers.” 

Barcelona and Spain star Alexia Putellas released her own statement, clarifying the issue surrounding the Spanish women’s football team: 

“In no case did we resign from the Spanish national team, like the RFEF claims in their official statement. Like we said in our private email, we’ve maintained, continue to maintain and will continue to maintain an unquestionable commitment to the Spanish national team,” the 2021 Ballon d’Or winner.

“That is why we request in our letter to the RFEF not to be called up to the national team until it remedies the situations that affect our mental and personal wellbeing, our performance, and in consequence, the results of the of the national team that could lead to undesirable injuries. These are the reasons why we’ve made this decision.” 

USWNT’s Megan Rapinoe has also come out in support of the players, posting the following message on Instagram: “You got a 16th standing with you in the united States,” Rapinoe posted to her story.

“This many players together like this is so powerful. We should all listen.”