Jenni Hermoso Returns to Spain Squad: 'I've Worked Every Day for This'
Spain's all-time leading scorer Jenni Hermoso and Barcelona defender Mapi Leon return to the squad for the Nations League semi-final against Sweden. Hermoso opens up about her emotional recall after a year-long absence.
“It's been exhausting. I've had to stay strong through some really tough moments...”
Spain's all-time leading scorer, Jenni Hermoso, has shared her heartfelt reaction to being recalled to the national team for the Nations League semi-final against Sweden. The 35-year-old forward broke down in tears upon learning of her inclusion in the squad, ending a year-long absence.
Hermoso expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “It was a moment that I have waited a long time for, and I've worked every day for this.” She emphasized that her age is not a factor, saying, “I never think about my age; it's about your body, mind, and desire.” Hermoso's journey back to the team has been marked by challenges, including a high-profile controversy involving former Spanish Football Federation President Luis Rubiales, who was found guilty of sexual assault for kissing her without consent during the World Cup celebrations in Sydney.
Reflecting on the difficulties she faced, Hermoso said, “It's been exhausting. I've had to stay strong through some really tough moments. There were times when coming back felt impossible, and I'm proud of myself for making it here.” Her determination and hard work have paid off, and she's eager to continue playing at this level, enjoying football with the national team.
Hermoso's recall marks a significant moment for the forward, who was central to Spain's World Cup triumph in 2023. She'll be joined in the squad by Barcelona defender Mapi Leon, who last played for Spain in 2022. Together, they'll look to make an impact in the Nations League semi-final against Sweden.
Jenni Hermoso's recall is a notable moment for the talented forward, who played a pivotal role in Spain's historic 2023 World Cup win. Her return to the spotlight comes amid the ongoing controversy surrounding former Spanish Football Federation President Luis Rubiales.
“I have to admit that I cried,” Hermoso, 35, told Radio Television Espanola. “It was a moment that I have waited a long time for and I've been working for a long time.
“To continue at this level and to be able to enjoy football with the national team is the reward for all that work.”
Controversy Surrounding Luis Rubiales
Rubiales was recently found guilty of sexual assault for non-consensual kissing Hermoso during the World Cup celebrations in Sydney. The incident sparked widespread outrage and led to Rubiales' resignation from his position. The court ruled that Rubiales kissed Hermoso without her consent, and he was subsequently banned from all football-related activities for three years and fined €133,000.
Reflecting on the challenges she has faced, Hermoso said: “It's been exhausting. I've had to stay strong through some really tough moments. There were times when coming back felt impossible, and I'm proud of myself for making it here.”
At 35 years old, Jenni Hermoso is indeed the oldest player in the current Spain squad, but she's quick to dismiss the significance of her age. As she puts it, “I never think about my age; it's about your body, mind, and desire.”
Mapi Leon Returns to Spain Squad
Barcelona defender Mapi Leon has also earned a recall to the Spain squad, marking her return to international duty after last representing the country in 2022. She'll join forces with Hermoso and the rest of the team for the Nations League semi-final against Sweden.
“I never think about my age,” she said. “It's about your body, your mind, and your desire. I've always seen myself coming back, and I've worked every day for this.”
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