Jorge Vilda has been sacked after the FIFA World Cup
Jorge Vilda, the accomplished coach who led Spain to victory in the Women’s World Cup, has been dismissed amidst the ongoing controversy involving Luis Rubiales.
Spain’s Women’s World Cup triumph was marred by an incident where the country’s football federation president, Rubiales, kissed forward Jenni Hermoso without her consent.
Following this incident, most of Vilda’s coaching staff resigned, and a staggering 81 players refused to represent Spain.
FIFA, the global governing body of football, provisionally suspended Rubiales, who refused to step down from his position.
The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) did not specify the reason for Vilda’s dismissal but acknowledged his commitment to the values of respect and sportsmanship in football. Nevertheless, there had been discussions within the RFEF about Vilda’s position due to his close association with Rubiales.
Vilda had shown support for Rubiales at a recent RFEF assembly in August, but he later criticized Rubiales’ actions.
The RFEF praised Vilda for his contributions to women’s football in Spain, including the recent World Cup triumph, and recognized his impeccable conduct.
Vilda had been in charge of the national team since 2015 and faced challenges, including a player ‘revolt’ in September 2022 when 15 players expressed concerns about their emotional well-being and preparation under his leadership.
Although tensions arose, only three of these players returned to the squad and played a part in Spain’s World Cup victory in Sydney.
During his tenure, Vilda managed Spain in 108 matches, winning 75, and guided the team to the European Championship quarter-finals in 2017 and 2022.
Despite Vilda’s departure, the World Cup champions are currently ranked second in the FIFA women’s world rankings.
The RFEF expressed gratitude to Jorge Vilda for his professionalism and dedication over the years and acknowledged his contribution to the growth of women’s football in Spain through his recognized game model and methodology.