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After weeks of speculation and amid a tumultuous tenure filled with controversy, the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has officially announced today the dismissal of Jorge Vilda as the coach of Spain’s women’s national team. In his place, Montse Tomé has been appointed, marking a historic moment as she becomes the first woman to hold this esteemed position within the Spanish national team.
Tomé boasts a rich history in the world of football, having enjoyed a 10-year club career and earning four caps as a player for the women’s national team. She has also served as an assistant under Vilda’s guidance for the past five years, gaining valuable experience and insights.
This appointment signifies a significant turning point in Spanish football and for the women’s national team. Vilda’s tenure had been marred by discontentment among the team’s players, with 15 of them openly rebelling against his leadership in 2022. Furthermore, Vilda controversially supported Luis Rubiales after an incident involving the alleged sexual assault of player Jenni Hermoso following the World Cup final.
In the face of mounting pressure, Rubiales staunchly declared, ‘I won’t resign,’ emphasizing his belief that he was the target of an unfounded campaign by what he referred to as ‘false feminists.’ He defended his actions, stating that the kiss with Hermoso was ‘mutual and consensual,’ despite Hermoso’s clear account suggesting otherwise.
Notably, among those who supported Rubiales’ decision not to step down were Jorge Vilda and the men’s national team coach, Luis de la Fuente.
Montse Tomé’s inaugural match as head coach will be a formidable one, as Spain faces off against Sweden, the world’s top-ranked team according to FIFA, on September 22 in the UEFA Women’s Nations League.
Published by Hear Her Stories