Spanish soccer player Jennifer Hermoso has received a special message of support from the England women’s team’s manager, Sarina Wiegman. Hermoso has been at the center of attention since she was forcibly kissed by RFEF head Luis Rubiales. Amid the ongoing controversy that has disturbed the soccer world, Wiegman’s gesture has been greatly appreciated by fans.
Sarina Wiegman was voted UEFA Women’s Coach of the Year in the recent UEFA Champions League 2023–24 draw. Besides Wiegman, Pep Guardiola became the Men’s Coach of the Year. Meanwhile, Manchester City star Erling Haaland won the Men’s Player of the Year award, and Spain’s World Cup-winning star Aitana Bonmati lifted the Women’s Player of the Year award.
England manager Sarina Wiegman’s acceptance speech.
Respect.
(via @footballontnt) pic.twitter.com/PgzXd3iaZV
— B/R Football (@brfootball) August 31, 2023
After winning the award, Sarina Wiegman dedicated her award to Jennifer Hermoso. Not only did she praise the Spanish women’s team for winning the World Cup, but she also took the opportunity to offer support to Hermoso. She said, “We all know the issues around the Spanish team. It really hurts me as a coach, as a mother of two daughters, as a wife, and as a human being.“
Sarina further stated that despite making so much progress, women’s soccer still has a long road to go. Sarina’s words were also echoed by FIFA President Gianni Infantino. On his social media account, Infantino condemned the unfortunate incident that occurred after Spain won the Women’s World Cup. While FIFA has already suspended Luis Rubiales, RFEF, which has been protecting his back, has also deserted him.
UEFA Women’s Player of the Year joins Sarina Wiegman in supporting Jennifer Hermoso
Meanwhile, UEFA Women’s Player of the Year Aitana Bonmati also expressed her support for her teammate Jennifer Hermoso. Bonmati has been one of the best female soccer players in the world this season. She not only won the World Cup with Spain, but she also lifted the Women’s Champions League with her club, FC Barcelona. Bonmati was also voted as the best player of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.
Speaking at the Champions League draw, Aitana Bonmati thanked Sarina Wiegman’s words of support. She also admitted that Spanish soccer is going through a bad phase currently. The 25-year-old also condemned the fact that Spain’s World Cup victory has been overshadowed by Luis Rubiales‘ actions. Bonmati stated that society should come together to prohibit such abuse of power and lack of respect.