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Spain\u2019s men\u2019s national team have condemned the \u201cunacceptable behaviour\u201d of Spanish Football Federation president Luis Rubiales, but called for unity as they focus on upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers.<\/p>\n
Rubiales has been provisionally suspended by FIFA for an initial period of 90 days, pending an investigation into his behaviour at the World Cup final when he kissed Spain midfielder Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the trophy and medals presentation.<\/p>\n
Hermoso has said she did not consent to the kiss, and along with her 22 team-mates, has said she will not play for the national team until Rubiales \u2013 who has refused to quit \u2013 resigns.<\/p>\n
On Monday, the Spanish men\u2019s team called an impromptu press conference where Alvaro Morata read a statement on behalf of the squad alongside fellow senior captains Marco Asensio, Cesar Azpilicueta and Rodri, which was also released on the Spanish Football Federation website.<\/p>\n
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\u201cOnce in Las Rozas (training base), the national team players want to emphasise several issues regarding recent events that have harmed the image of Spanish football,\u201d the statement read.<\/p>\n
\u201cFirst and foremost, we want to convey, once again, our pride and heartfelt congratulations to the women\u2019s national team for winning the World Cup in Sydney.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s a historic milestone filled with significance that will mark a before and after in Spanish women\u2019s football, inspiring countless women with an invaluable triumph.<\/p>\n
\u201cTherefore, we want to express our regret and solidarity with the players whose success has been tarnished.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe want to reject what we consider unacceptable behaviour on the part of Mr Rubiales, who has not lived up to the institution he represents.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe firmly and unequivocally stand on the side of the values that this sport represents. Spanish football must be a driving force for respect, inspiration, inclusion, and diversity and must set an example with its behaviour both on and off the field.\u201d<\/p>\n
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Spain manager has asked for forgiveness after clapping Rubiales <\/p>\n
\u201cStarting today, we face a crucial training camp for the future of Spanish football on our path to qualify for Euro 2024 with two matches against Georgia and Cyprus.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe would like to focus on sporting matters from now on, considering the importance of the challenges ahead.\u201d<\/p>\n
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente had previously apologised for applauding when Rubiales told RFEF\u2019s extraordinary general meeting he would not be resigning in the wake of the controversy.<\/p>\n
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As well as his post-match conduct during the medal ceremony, Rubiales, 46, had also grabbed his crotch in the stadium\u2019s VIP area in celebration, when he was stood metres away from Spain\u2019s Queen Letizia and her teenage daughter.<\/p>\n
The RFEF regional heads have also called for Rubiales\u2019 resignation, while members of the Spanish government have added their voices to those demanding he steps aside.<\/p>\n