Jenni Hermoso left out of Spain squad after release of Netflix documentary on Luis Rubiales World Cup kiss scandal as head coach points to 'team spirit'

The decision to leave Hermoso out of the squad comes in the wake of the release of a Netflix documentary shedding light on the controversy that followed Spain's victory in the 2023 Women's World Cup when then-president of the Spanish Football Federation, Luis Rubiales, forcibly kissed the player during the medal ceremony, an act that sparked widespread outrage and condemnation. Hermoso had earlier voiced concerns during the Olympics about her limited playing time as she played for just 16 minutes in Spain's match against Canada during the last international break. These frustrations, paired with challenges adapting to her evolving role in the senior squad, have reportedly affected her standing within the team.

Although Tome refrained from explicitly criticising Hermoso or Paredes, her comments suggested that she prioritises players who align with her vision of collective cohesion.

"We've been in an exceptional situation for two years now, and when we started we were very clear about what we wanted to be as a team," the coach said.

"I don't want to say that these players weren't up to the job, but I'm clear about what I want the team to be and what I like to see, this team spirit, this know-how."

Following the exclusion, Hermoso shared a cryptic response on her Instagram story. Posting a photograph alongside the words, “Don’t sell your soul to the devil,” Hermoso seemed to attempt a thinly veiled critique of the coach’s decision.

@jennihermoso Instagram

As Spain prepare for their friendlies, questions linger about the implications of these high-profile exclusions. While Tome’s vision of team spirit may resonate with some, it remains to be seen how the team will perform in the absence of experienced leaders like Hermoso and Paredes in the forthcoming matches against South Korea and France on November 29 and December 3, respectively.