The captains of the Spain men’s national team have criticised the “unacceptable” behaviour of Spanish football association (RFEF) president Luis Rubiales at the Women’s World Cup final.
Alvaro Morata, Cesar Azpilicueta, Rodrigo Hernandez and Marco Asensio began Monday’s press conference by reading out a statement on behalf of the Spain squad. They described his actions as “not living up to the institution he represents” but did not call for him to resign.
Rubiales kissed Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the medal ceremony at Stadium Australia after Spain won the Women’s World Cup for the first time. Hermoso said the kiss was not consensual.
Rubiales, who said he would not resign over the incident, was suspended by FIFA and regional leaders from the RFEF have requested he stands down. In a statement released on Friday, Rubiales said the kiss with Hermoso was consensual and he “would continue to defend his position to tell the truth”.
The statement from the national team read: “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…
 president Luis Rubiales at the Women’s World Cup final. Alvaro Morata, Cesar Azpilicueta, Rodrigo Hernandez and Marco Asensio began Monday’s press conference by reading out a statement on behalf of the Spain squad. They described his actions as “not living up to the institution he represents” but did not call for him to resign. Rubiales kissed Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the medal ceremony at Stadium Australia after...){kind=link}