Intriguing video footage has surfaced that appears to depict Spain’s head coach, Jorge Vilda, engaging in inappropriate physical contact with a female staff member during the Women’s World Cup final between Spain and England.
Jorge Vilda, the helm of La Roja, finds himself mired in fresh controversy following his team’s victory in the prestigious summer event. This year has been marked by allegations of maltreatment and inappropriate behaviour from 15 players, a group infamously known as “la 15”, directed towards both Vilda and the Spanish Football Association (RFEF).
The video snippet, spanning less than 10 seconds, captures a moment of celebration among the Spanish staff shortly after captain Olga Carmona scored a goal against the Lionesses in the 29th minute. In the footage, Vilda’s left hand appears to rest briefly on a female staff member’s chest, a gesture that has ignited widespread discussion on social media and intensified an already divisive discourse around Vilda’s position as the head coach of the national women’s team.
Tensions surrounding Vilda’s role were already palpable. Following Spain’s quarter-final win against the Netherlands, players conspicuously avoided celebrating with Vilda on the pitch. Similar circumstances recurred during the final, as players and staff jubilantly celebrated on separate sides of the field.
Vilda’s interaction with key figures hasn’t been smooth either. Barcelona and Spain star Alexia Putellas declined to shake Vilda’s hand after the semi-final victory against Sweden. Notably, fans expressed their disapproval by vehemently booing Vilda when his name was announced before the Women’s World Cup final.
Vilda’s actions coincide with those of RFEF president Luis Rubiales, who raised eyebrows by kissing Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the World Cup medal ceremony. Rubiales also seemingly made an objectionable gesture during post-match celebrations.
These series of incidents have cast a shadow over both Vilda and Rubiales, putting immense pressure on their positions. Criticism has mounted against Rubiales for his role in navigating the strained dynamics between players and coaching staff.
In light of these developments, the RFEF has convened an Extraordinary General Assembly scheduled for September 1. The assembly aims to address “the latest events that occurred during the award ceremony of the Women’s World Cup,” underscoring the urgency of addressing the controversies surrounding Spain’s participation in the prestigious tournament.
Source: GraphicOnline
