Record scorer Jenni Hermoso, who made headlines for her fight against sexism in Spanish soccer, has revealed another reason why the national team's former coach, Jorge Vilda, had to go. According to Hermoso, players felt that Vilda routinely invaded their privacy, causing discomfort within the team. Vilda had led Spain to the Women's World Cup title in August 2022 but was fired shortly after, following criticism of the former federation president Luis Rubiales, who kissed Hermoso on the lips without her consent during the awards ceremony.
In an interview clip released on Friday from the 'Planeta Calleja' show on Spanish TV channel Cuatro, Hermoso shed light on the unease that players experienced when they were gathered at hotels. She mentioned that Vilda insisted on speaking to them personally before they went to bed, requiring them to leave their doors open. 'He said it was because it was the only moment when he could speak personally with us,' Hermoso revealed.
Furthermore, players were also bothered by Vilda's habits, as he would question them about what they had brought back when they returned from outings away from the hotel. These incidents created discomfort and contributed to the strained relationship between Vilda and the players.
It is important to note that Vilda vehemently denied any inappropriate behavior in a radio interview with Cadena SER shortly after his termination. He claimed that he had always shown maximum respect for his players and everyone he had coached and worked with.
This revelation by Hermoso comes after many Spanish players attempted to force changes in what they considered unprofessional and inappropriate attitudes surrounding the team. In September 2022, several players refused to continue playing under Vilda, but the Spanish soccer federation, then headed by Rubiales, backed the coach. Consequently, many players did not return to the team in time for the Women's World Cup triumph.
The controversy surrounding Vilda and Rubiales eventually led to Rubiales' resignation due to immense pressure. He is currently under investigation by a Spanish court following accusations by Hermoso of sexual assault and attempted coercion to publicly support him after the non-consensual kiss. Rubiales denies any wrongdoing. Vilda has also faced questioning by the judge regarding allegations of pressuring Hermoso to back Rubiales.
Jenni Hermoso has emerged as a prominent figure in Spain, having used her voice to denounce the kiss and spark a 'Me Too' movement in sports within the country. As the all-time leading scorer for Spain's women's team, her actions have brought attention to the issue of sexism in Spanish soccer and inspired others to speak out against similar instances of misconduct.
In recent news, Hermoso revealed that she will be joining Mexican club Tigres after her stay with Pachuca, furthering her football career and potentially continuing her fight against gender inequality in the sport.
Meanwhile, Vilda has taken up a coaching position with Morocco's women's team, leaving behind the controversy that surrounded his tenure as Spain's head coach.
The full interview with Jenni Hermoso will be broadcast on Monday, providing further insight into the disturbing incidents that occurred during her time with the national team.
This latest revelation from Hermoso serves as a reminder that respect, dignity, and privacy should always be upheld within the realm of sports, and the incidents she has brought to light highlight the need for continued efforts to address sexism and inappropriate behavior within the world of women's soccer.
