Morocco Hires Controversial Ex-Spain Coach Jorge Vilda to Lead Women’s Team

Last month, he had been removed from his position in Spain following a series of controversies. Indeed, 15 Spanish players had declined their call-up after Euro 2022, citing reasons related to their mental well-being, while Vilda was in the spotlight, involved in a judicial investigation targeting the former president of the RFEF, Luis Rubiales.

The Rubiales affair, still ongoing, stems from a series of disagreements between the RFEF and the players that have lasted for more than a year. At the heart of this power struggle, a controversy following an unwanted kiss from Rubiales to Jenni Hermoso. Despite the tensions and the cascade of resignations, Rubiales had promised Vilda a golden contract, while contesting the accusations against him.

In October, Vilda appeared before the Spanish justice system, still linked to this case as a possible accomplice of Rubiales. Meanwhile, the Spanish women’s team has demanded major changes within the RFEF, which had supported Rubiales before issuing official apologies.

For its part, Morocco wrote a page of history this summer, qualifying for the Women’s World Cup. Under Vilda’s leadership, the Moroccan team, with Tottenham’s Rosella Ayane as the star, aims to shine again, especially with the Africa Cup of Nations it will host in 2024.