SPAIN’s World Cup squad have demanded disgraced Spanish FA chief Luis Rubiales be sacked after kissing one of the team’s star player.
Jenni Hermoso is one of the 81 footballers refusing to play any further international matches until “the federation leadership is removed” from his post.
It comes after Rubiales refused to resign after kissing forward Hermoso following Spain’s Women’s World Cup final win over England.
Fifa opened a disciplinary proceeding into the matter yesterday.
Rubiales was also criticised for grabbing his crotch as he celebrated La Roja’s historic victory at the final whistle.
Despite reporters being briefed that he would be announcing his resignation at a press conference today, Rubiales has made a stunning U-turn.
However, the aftermath of his press conference has seen Spain striker Borja Iglesias QUIT the men’s national team out of protest.
Rubiales had been widely expected to resign at an extraordinary general assembly called by the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), but instead said “I don’t deserve this manhunt”.
He added: “It was a spontaneous kiss. Mutual, euphoric and consensual. That’s the key. A consensual ‘peck’ is enough to get me out of here?”
A statement from Jenni Hermoso has since been released by players’ union Futpro, where she denies any consent to the kiss and labels the FA chief’s words as “categorically false” and part of a “manipulative culture”.
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“After achieving one of the most desired successes of my sports career and after a few days of reflection, I want to wholeheartedly thank my teammates, fans, followers, the media and all of you who have made this dream come true,” the Spanish forward said.
“Your work and unconditional support have been a fundamental part of winning the World Cup.
“In reference to what happened today. Although it is true that for my part I do not want to interfere with the multiple legal processes in progress, I feel compelled to denounce that the words of Mr Luis Rubiales explaining the unfortunate accident are categorically false and part of the manipulative culture that he himself has generated.
“I clarify that at no time did the conversation to which Mr Luis Rubiales referred to take place and that, far from it, his kiss was consented.
“In the same way I want to reiterate as I did at the time that this fact had not been to my liking.”
A statement from the Lionesses expressed their support to Hermoso.
“Unacceptable actions allowed to happen by a sexist and patriarchal organisation,” it began.
“Abuse is abuse and we have all seen the truth.
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“The behaviour of those who think they are invincible must not be tolerated and people shouldn’t need convincing to take action against any form of harassment.
“We all stand with you, @jennihermoso and all players of the Spanish team.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
