Jenni Hermoso has been left out of Spain’s first matches since winning the Women’s World Cup, as new coach Montse Tome named her inaugural squad.
Hermoso was kissed on the lips by then-Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales during the trophy presentation, which she said was non-consensual.
The incident sparked a huge backlash that resulted in the resignation of Rubiales and sacking of head coach Jorge Vilda.
“We stand with Jenni,” Tome said.
“We believe that the best way to protect her is like this, but we are counting on Jenni.”
A large number of Spain’s title-winning squad, 21 of the 23, protested by going on strike and were among 39 to say on Friday that they will continue to boycott games until further changes are made.
But 15 of the World Cup winners were named in Tome’s selection for the upcoming Nations League matches against Sweden and Switzerland.
The Spanish FA sought to address the concerns of the players with a statement on Monday, urging them to “join this change” and guaranteeing “safe environment for the players.”
“The Federation itself is aware of the need for structural changes, as already announced by the President of the Interim Commission, Pedro Rocha, and has begun to materialize them in recent times,” said the statement.
“This conviction has led to difficult decisions in recent days that will continue to be made, as there is a firm belief that renewal is necessary. In this regard, it is absolutely essential, to carry out these changes, to clarify each of the behaviours and actions that may have occurred and, therefore, act with professionalism and justice, determining the relevant responsibilities in each case.
“It is evident that the Federation, society, and the players themselves are aligned with the same objective: the renewal and the beginning of a new phase where football is the main beneficiary of this entire process.
“Hence, players are urged to join this change led by the Federation, understanding that the ongoing transformations must be robust and fair.
“We guarantee a safe environment for the players and advocate for a climate of mutual trust so that we can work together and ensure that women’s football continues to progress much stronger. We must begin to proudly display the star that the players have achieved with so much effort.”
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