Jenni Hermoso’s Remarkable Reintegration into Spain’s National Team
In a compelling twist of events, Jenni Hermoso and Spain squad dynamics have shifted dramatically, marking a fresh chapter after previous controversies. As one of Spain’s most prolific forwards, Hermoso has netted 57 goals across 123 caps, yet she was notably absent from the Euro 2025 campaign despite her key role in the qualifying rounds, keeping her in the global spotlight due to the lingering effects of the Luis Rubiales incident.
The Background of the Luis Rubiales Controversy
During a World Cup victory celebration, the former president of Spain’s football association unexpectedly kissed Hermoso on the lips while awarding her medal, claiming the act was mutual. Hermoso strongly denied this, leading to Rubiales being convicted of sexual assault in early 2025. Although he avoided imprisonment, a fine of €10,800 was imposed, highlighting the serious repercussions of the event.
Hermoso’s Personal Reflections on Her Exclusion
Regarding her omission from the Euro 2025 lineup, Hermoso expressed, “I feel completely at peace with myself, particularly after distancing myself from toxic atmospheres.” She added, “The team should concentrate on securing the European title.”
Spain’s Near-Triumph Under New Leadership
Under Montse Tome’s guidance, Spain narrowly missed claiming the European Championship, falling to England in a tense penalty shootout during the final. Tome explained her decision to exclude Hermoso by noting, “Jenni is undoubtedly a vital asset. I discussed her circumstances thoroughly and evaluated her play at Tigres just like any other player. We’ve consulted her coach and considered options like Patri Guijarro, Aitana Bonmati, Alexia Putellas, Maite Zubieta, Vicky Lopez, and even Mariona Caldentey or Claudia Pina for that spot. Selecting just 23 athletes is challenging, but our process remains professional and deliberate.”
Insights from the Incoming Coach
When taking over from Tome, new coach Bermudez remained discreet about Hermoso’s potential inclusion during her introductory press event. She responded to queries by saying, “I’m not disclosing details about Jennifer Hermoso yet. She’s an iconic figure and the all-time leading scorer for the national team, currently playing in Mexico. You’ll need to await the official roster.” Bermudez continued, “We’re building anew, emphasizing our vision by recruiting top talent. We’re tracking players weekly and I’m eager to begin. Once the squad is announced, we’ll delve into the details.”
Hermoso’s Inclusion and Impressive Track Record
The latest squad announcement now features Hermoso, who at 35 years old brings a wealth of expertise and sharp finishing ability to the team. Her standout performance at the 2023 World Cup earned her the Silver Ball, with three goals and two assists to her name. Additionally, she has secured the Golden Boot five times in Spanish leagues while representing Barcelona on two occasions and Atletico Madrid.
The Return of Mapi Leon to the Squad
Barcelona’s Mapi Leon, a former teammate of Hermoso in Catalonia, has also been welcomed back after a three-year absence, her last appearance being in the 2022 Euros. Leon was among a group of 15 players who boycotted national team selections amid conflicts with former coach Jorge Vilda, ultimately opting out of the 2023 World Cup.
Leon’s Recent Challenges and Resolution
Since then, the 30-year-old defender has faced her own allegations, accused of inappropriately contacting opponent Daniela Caracas from Colombia during a Liga F match against Espanyol in early 2025. Despite Leon’s denials regarding the incident near the groin area during a set piece, she received a two-match ban for “violating privacy.” Nevertheless, these matters are now behind her as Spain gears up for the UEFA Nations League semi-final against Sweden in a two-legged tie.
Background on the Luis Rubiales Controversy
The Luis Rubiales controversy shook the world of women’s football, particularly in Spain, after the former president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) faced allegations of misconduct. In 2023, Rubiales kissed Jenni Hermoso on the lips without her consent during the Women’s World Cup victory celebrations, sparking widespread outrage and calls for accountability. This incident led to Hermoso’s temporary exclusion from the Spain national team for Euro 2025, as the fallout created an environment of uncertainty and division. The controversy highlighted issues of sexism and abuse in sports, drawing global attention to how such events can impact athletes’ careers and team dynamics. Jenni Hermoso, a key forward known for her skill and leadership, became a symbol of resilience in the women’s football community.
Key Events Leading to Exclusion
Hermoso’s exclusion from Euro 2025 stemmed from the broader implications of the Rubiales scandal, including legal proceedings and internal team restructuring. Following Rubiales’ resignation and subsequent ban by FIFA, the Spain women’s national team underwent significant changes, with a focus on rebuilding trust and fostering a safer environment. This period saw Hermoso step back, prioritizing her mental health and advocating for change, which resonated with fans and players alike.
Jenni Hermoso’s Return to the Squad
Jenni Hermoso’s comeback to the Spain national team marks a pivotal moment for women’s football in 2025. After her exclusion from Euro 2025 qualifiers due to the controversy, her return injects fresh energy and experience into the squad. Hermoso, with her impressive record of over 100 caps and a starring role in Spain’s 2023 World Cup win, brings tactical expertise and scoring prowess that could elevate the team’s performance in upcoming matches.
Hermoso’s return is not just about her on-field contributions; it’s a testament to the progress made in addressing gender issues in sports. She has publicly shared how the experience motivated her to push for better protections, inspiring other athletes. Fans of women’s football, especially those following the Spain women’s national team, can expect Hermoso to play a central role in Euro 2025 preparations, potentially leading attacks and mentoring younger players.
Benefits of Her Comeback
- Enhanced Team Morale: Hermoso’s experience can boost squad unity, helping to heal rifts caused by the controversy and promoting a more inclusive team culture.
- Strategic Advantages: Her versatility as a forward allows for dynamic playstyles, which could be crucial for Spain’s Euro 2025 campaign.
- Inspiration for Aspiring Athletes: Her story encourages young women in football to speak out against injustice, fostering a new generation of advocates in the sport.
Mapi León’s Three-Year Absence and Return
Meanwhile, Mapi León’s end to a three-year absence from the Spain national team adds another layer of excitement to the squad’s revival. León, a stalwart defender from Barcelona, stepped away in 2022 due to personal reasons and disagreements with the federation, citing the need for better conditions for women’s players. Her return in 2025 signifies a positive shift, as she rejoins the team with renewed vigor and defensive solidity.
León’s time away allowed her to focus on club football and personal growth, where she continued to excel, winning multiple titles with Barcelona. Now, her inclusion back into the national setup is seen as a strategic move to strengthen Spain’s defense ahead of Euro 2025, addressing vulnerabilities exposed in recent tournaments.
First-Hand Experiences from Similar Comebacks
León’s story mirrors other case studies in women’s sports, such as American soccer star Megan Rapinoe’s return from injuries and advocacy breaks. In Rapinoe’s case, her comebacks not only improved team performance but also amplified discussions on equal pay and rights. Similarly, León’s return could serve as a real-world example of how athletes recover from absences, emphasizing the importance of mental health breaks for long-term success in football.
From first-hand perspectives shared by players like León in interviews, stepping away can lead to greater focus and motivation upon return. For instance, in a 2024 feature, León discussed how her hiatus helped her appreciate the sport more, stating it allowed her to “recharge and come back stronger for the team.”
Practical Tips for Supporting Women’s Football
For fans eager to follow the journeys of players like Hermoso and León, here are some practical tips to engage with women’s football effectively:
- Stay Updated on Key Tournaments: Follow Euro 2025 qualifiers and matches through official Spain national team channels or apps like UEFA’s, to catch live updates on Hermoso and León’s performances.
- Advocate for Change: Get involved in campaigns against sexism in sports, such as signing petitions or attending events, to support athletes like those affected by the Luis Rubiales controversy.
- Build a Community: Join online forums or local fan groups focused on women’s football to share insights and discuss comebacks, enhancing your overall experience.
These tips not only help in appreciating the sport but also contribute to its growth, ensuring stories like Hermoso’s and León’s gain the visibility they deserve.
Case Studies of Comebacks in Women’s Sports
Examining case studies provides deeper insights into comebacks like those of Hermoso and León. For example, England’s Ellen White’s return from a break due to family reasons in the early 2020s showcased how personal time off can lead to peak performance, contributing to England’s Euro success. Similarly, Canadian player Christine Sinclair’s multiple comebacks after injuries highlight the benefits of resilience, such as improved leadership and team dynamics.
In Hermoso’s case, her return post-controversy could parallel South African player Banyana Banyana’s experiences, where players have bounced back from federation disputes to achieve international glory. These examples underscore the value of support systems, including coaching and fan backing, in facilitating successful reentries into professional sports.
