“Analyzing the Departure of Spain Manager Jorge Vilda: Implications and Repercussions for Spanish Football”

Sport Football

Spain manager Jorge Vilda sacked by Spanish FA amid Luis Rubiales crisis

The Spanish Football Federation has made the decision to sack women’s manager Jorge Vilda, just two weeks after the team’s victory in the World Cup. This comes amidst an ongoing crisis surrounding Luis Rubiales, the president of the Federation (RFEF), who has been suspended by Fifa and banned from contacting forward Jenni Hermoso or anyone close to her due to his conduct during the final. Rubiales has refused to step down and has called the situation a “witch hunt” against him.

Controversial and Unpopular Figure

Jorge Vilda has long been a controversial and unpopular figure among the Spanish women’s squad. Last year, 15 players made themselves unavailable for selection, citing the negative impact on their mental health and emotional wellbeing caused by the environment of the national team. They complained about Vilda’s managerial regime and the outdated nature of the international set-up. The players also expressed dissatisfaction with certain arrangements, such as long bus trips and the absence of key staff, which they felt did not meet their expectations compared to their experiences at the club level.

Support for Rubiales

The final blow for Vilda came from his public support for Rubiales, rather than his controversial management of the team. Despite winning the World Cup, Vilda’s support for Rubiales’ actions during the final, including kissing players and engaging in an aggressive celebration, has led to his removal from the coaching position. The Spanish Football Federation, however, can only remove Rubiales through a no-confidence vote made by its assembly, which requires the support of a third of the members to be tabled and two thirds to pass.

Reputational Damage and Regret

The ongoing crisis surrounding Rubiales has caused damage to Spain’s reputation, particularly in relation to their bid to co-host the 2030 men’s World Cup. The current RFEF president, Pedro Rocha, has expressed his shame and regret over Rubiales’ actions, stating that they do not represent the values defended by the Spanish federation or Spanish society as a whole. Rocha’s letter distances the organization from Rubiales’ conduct, attributing full responsibility for his actions to Rubiales himself.

Editorial: A Crisis of Leadership in Spanish Women’s Football

The recent sacking of Jorge Vilda as the coach of the Spanish women’s football team marks another chapter in the ongoing crisis that has engulfed the team. This crisis, centered around the actions of Luis Rubiales, the president of the Spanish Football Federation, not only reflects a failure of leadership but also highlights deeper issues within the national team and the organization as a whole.

Vilda’s departure comes after a tumultuous period for the team, with players speaking out about the oppressive nature of his managerial regime and criticizing the outdated structures of the organization. The team’s success in winning the World Cup was overshadowed by the controversy surrounding Rubiales’ conduct during the final and Vilda’s support for him. This has further damaged the reputation of Spanish women’s football and raised questions about the values and standards upheld by the federation.

It is clear that there is a need for a change in leadership and a reevaluation of the entire structure and culture surrounding the women’s national team. The players’ complaints about the working conditions, lack of support staff, and management style cannot be ignored. The success of the team and the development of women’s football in Spain depend on creating an environment that nurtures and empowers the players, allowing them to reach their full potential.

Additionally, there must be accountability for the actions of Luis Rubiales. His behavior during the final was unacceptable and has caused significant harm to the reputation of Spanish football. It is crucial that the Spanish Football Federation takes decisive action to distance itself from Rubiales and sends a clear message that such conduct will not be tolerated.

Advice for Moving Forward

1. Transparency and Accountability

The Spanish Football Federation must prioritize transparency and accountability in order to regain the trust of players, fans, and the wider football community. Clear guidelines and codes of conduct should be established, and mechanisms for reporting misconduct should be put in place. Investigations into allegations and appropriate disciplinary action must be taken swiftly and fairly.

2. Support and Investment

The success of the women’s national team depends on adequate support and investment. This includes providing the team with experienced and qualified staff, adequate resources and facilities, and a supportive and inclusive environment. The federation should also work closely with clubs to ensure that players are given the best chance to develop their skills and compete at the highest level.

3. Culture Change

There needs to be a cultural shift within the Spanish Football Federation and the women’s national team. Outdated practices and attitudes must be challenged and replaced with a more progressive and inclusive approach. The voices and experiences of the players should be valued and respected. This will require leadership that is committed to fostering a positive and empowering environment.

4. Focus on the Long-Term

While immediate actions need to be taken to address the current crisis, it is important to also focus on the long-term development of women’s football in Spain. This includes investing in grassroots initiatives, creating pathways for young players, and promoting equal opportunities at all levels of the game. Nurturing talent and providing a supportive infrastructure will be key to ensuring sustained success in the future.

Only through genuine reform and a commitment to change can Spanish women’s football overcome this crisis and fulfill its potential. The challenges ahead are significant, but with the right leadership, support, and investment, the team can emerge stronger and help shape a more inclusive and equitable future for the sport.