BARCELONA: – Despite their earlier declarations of unavailability, Spanish internationals, including two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas, arrived at the women’s national team training camp under new coach Montse Tome.
This arrival, however, leaves lingering doubts about their willingness to participate in upcoming Nations League games.
The camp welcomed Barcelona-based players who joined the rest of the squad in Valencia, with the only absentee being Cristina Martin-Prieto, who replaced the injured Esther Gonzalez. Notably, Sevilla forward Martin-Prieto is not part of the ongoing strike.
Currently, 39 players remain on strike, protesting for changes within the Spanish football federation (RFEF) following a scandal involving former president Luis Rubiales. While 19 of the 23-woman squad led by Tome are on strike, the potential legal consequences have led them to reluctantly attend.
Barcelona defender Mapi Leon expressed concerns about being compelled to attend, as Spain’s sports law could impose sanctions on those rejecting call-ups. Goalkeeper Misa Rodriguez, when asked if she was happy to be included, simply replied “no.”
In a joint statement, striking players reiterated their desire not to be called up, but acknowledged the legal ramifications that may force their attendance.
Former president Rubiales, who resigned after forcibly kissing midfielder Jenni Hermoso, led to widespread outrage, and subsequent structural changes, including coach Jorge Vilda’s removal, have not quelled the players’ demands for broader improvements.
Spain’s sports law, effective from 2022, mandates national team call-up attendance. Refusal could result in significant fines ranging from €3,000 to €30,000 ($3,200 to $32,100) and potential suspension from playing for up to five years.
Spain is scheduled to face Sweden on Sept. 22 and Switzerland on Sept. 26 in the Nations League, with a spot in the 2024 Olympic Games at stake for the eventual finalists. Swedish players have expressed support for their Spanish counterparts, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in facing such challenging decisions.
As the situation unfolds, the Spanish national team’s journey remains uncertain, with government involvement and legal obligations hanging over the players’ heads.
