Spanish women’s soccer in turmoil after player revolt

By JOSEPH WILSON
Associated Press

BARCELONA, Spain (AP) — More than half of the Spain women’s team has told their federation they no longer want to play because being on the team has “significantly” affected their “emotional state” and health. They insist they don’t want coach Jorge Vilda removed. The federation has interpreted the players’ move as an attempt to “pressure” its leadership into firing Vilda. However, the players, say they want from him and the federation “a clear commitment to a professional project.” The federation has defended the professionalism of Vilda. Federation official Ana Álvarez says there have been no incidents of verbal abuse by Vilda.