Spain players condemn Rubiales’ “unacceptable behaviour”

Striker Álvaro Morata, captain of the men’s national team of Spain, read this Monday (4) a statement from the team in which all players condemn the “unacceptable behavior” of Luis Rubialessuspended by FIFA as president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).

“We want to repudiate what we consider to be unacceptable behavior on the part of Mr. Rubiales, who did not live up to the institution he represents,” said Morata, referring to the forced kiss that Rubiales gave player Jennifer Hermoso after the World Cup final. Female.

“We are firmly and clearly on the side of the values ​​that sport represents. Spanish football must be an engine of respect, inspiration, inclusion and diversity, and must set an example with its conduct on and off the field,” he added.

With all the squad present in the room and squad leaders Morata, Rodri Hernández, César Azpilicueta and Marco Asensio at the table, the players took a stand on the controversy unleashed after the Women’s World Cup, disapproving Rubiales’ behavior.

“We would like to express once again our pride and our most sincere congratulations to the women’s team for winning the World Cup in Sydney,” began Morata, who took the floor as the first captain following the retirement of left-back Jordi Alba from selection.

“A historic milestone full of meaning that will mark a before and after in Spanish women’s football, inspiring many women with a priceless triumph. For this reason, we want to express our regret and our solidarity with the players who saw the its success tarnished,” he added.

After condemning Rubiales’ behaviour, the players urged the press to drop the matter and focus on the two decisive matches in the Euro 2024 qualifiers against Georgia and Cyprus.

“Starting today, we face a decisive stage for the future of Spanish football on our way to qualifying for Euro 2024, with two games against Georgia and Cyprus. the importance of the challenges ahead”, he said.