Xabi Alonso Voices Support for Spain Women's Push for Transformation in Football Federation
Xabi Alonso, the head coach of Bayer Leverkusen, has shown his support for the Spain Women's team in their fight for "decisive changes" within the country's football federation. Alonso spoke out after the majority of players ended their boycott of the national team, backing their calls for improvements in the sport and the federation.
Spain Women's Boycott Ends with Resignation and Sacking
The boycott by Spain Women's players, which included 15 members of the World Cup winning squad, came to an end just hours before the resignation of former Spain football federation president, Luis Rubiales, and the sacking of secretary general Andreu Camps. The players had initiated the boycott after receiving assurances that the Spanish FA was committed to implementing "profound and immediate" changes to its structure.
Xabi Alonso Speaks Up for the Players' Cause
Xabi Alonso expressed his belief that the players' fight for their rights and for change in Spanish football was the right cause. He emphasized that football is just a game and their efforts could pave the way for a better future. Alonso highlighted the success of the women's team and the need to focus on their achievements, stating that "good things can come from bad things if you fight for the right cause."
Spain Women's Squad Returns to Camp Following Boycott
The majority of the 23 players called up for Spain Women's Nations League duty remained in camp after ending the boycott. This group includes 15 members of the squad who secured Spain's first-ever World Cup win in August. The boycott had been triggered by an unwanted kiss on the mouth by Luis Rubiales towards Spain forward Jenni Hermoso after their World Cup final victory against England.
Concerns Regarding Federation's Management of Women's Football
The players' protest also stemmed from ongoing concerns about the federation's handling of the women's national team. The footballers had called for a restructuring of the RFEF and its organization of women's football.
Two Players Opt Out of Nations League Matches
Amid the boycott, two players, Mapi Leon and Patri Guijarro, decided to leave the camp before the upcoming Women's Nations League matches against Sweden and Switzerland. The Barcelona stars were among the 39 players who had raised concerns in a collective written statement. Although supportive of their teammates, Leon and Guijarro expressed discomfort with returning to the camp at this time and emphasized the ongoing need for change.
Overall, the boycott and subsequent developments have highlighted the players' determination for transformation and a more equitable environment within Spanish football.
