The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has announced the appointment of Montse Tome as the new head coach of their senior women’s team. This decision comes in the wake of former coach Jorge Vilda’s dismissal despite his role in leading the team to their first-ever World Cup victory.

A series of controversies and protests by multiple team members had made Vilda’s tenure increasingly unstable. In a remarkable turn of events last year, 15 players of the national team led a revolt against Vilda. Out of these, only three returned to play under him during the World Cup.

Tome was a key part of Vilda’s coaching staff throughout the World Cup and it was her experience coupled with her personal rapport with the team that prompted the federation to trust her with the top job.

The situation escalated after a scandal involving RFEF president Luis Rubiales came into the light during the World Cup final. Rubiales was caught forcibly grabbing and kissing forward Jenni Hermoso during the trophy presentation. This unacceptable act led to his suspension as president and a 90-day ban from all footballing activities by FIFA.

Interestingly, Rubiales had continuously stood by Vilda, even promising him a new contract following Spain’s World Cup victory. Tome, who has had a successful assembly line of titles as a former player at Levante and Barcelona, retired in 2012 to pursue a career in coaching.

Tome is a holder of the UEFA Pro License. She will coach her first match in her new role on September 22 against Sweden — the team Spain defeated in the World Cup semi-finals. Spain will then face off against Switzerland on September 26, as part of their ongoing UEFA Nations League campaign.

This appointment marks a crucial turning point for the Spanish Women’s team, following a tumultuous period. Under Tome’s guidance, the team looks forward to reclaiming its glory and charting a path of victory on the global circuit.