The players summoned by Luis de la Fuente for the qualifying matches for the German Euro Cup against Georgia and Cyprus appeared before the media at the Las Rozas Football City to read a statement of support for the women's team and disapproval of Luis Rubiales, who are not asked to resign.
The statement was read by Álvaro Morata on behalf of the other three captains present in the room, César Azpilicueta, Rodrigo Hernández and Marco Asensio. At the end of the reading, no questions were allowed.
The statement says the following:
"Once concentrated in Las Rozas, the national team players want to highlight several issues regarding the latest events that have damaged the image of Spanish football:
First of all, we want to convey, once again, our pride and our most sincere congratulations to the women's team for the title of World Champions in Sydney. A historical milestone full of meaning that will mark a before and after in Spanish women's football, inspiring many women with a triumph of incalculable value. For this reason, we want to regret and express our solidarity with the players who have seen their success tarnished.
We want to reject what we consider unacceptable behavior on the part of Mr. Rubiales, who has not lived up to the institution he represents.
We stand 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 behavior both on and off the pitch.
Starting today, we face a decisive concentration for the future of Spanish football on our way to qualifying for Euro2024 with two games against Georgia and Cyprus. We would like that, from now on, we could focus on sports issues given the relevance of the challenges that lie ahead."
