Real Betis boss Manuel Pellegrini has objected to Borja Iglesias’ statement over the developing Luis Rubiales’ resignation row.
Rubiales is at the centre of a storm in Madrid, after his controversial behaviour after Spain’s win in the 2023 FIFA World Cup final, including kissing Hermoso on the lips in Sydney.
The RFEF chief has rejected calls to resign from his role with Hermoso stating the kiss was not consensual and claimed there has been constant pressure applied to justify Rubiales behaviour.
Iglesias has claimed he will not accept a call up to the Spain squad until changes are made, including the removal of Rubiales, however, Pellegrini has hinted his disagreement with the forward.
Estoy triste y decepcionado.
Como futbolista y como persona no me siento representado por lo que ha pasado hoy en la Ciudad del Fútbol de Las Rozas. Me parece lamentable que sigan presionando y poniendo el foco sobre una compañera.
— Borja Iglesias (@BorjaIglesias9) August 25, 2023
“I disagree with Borja. As a player you always have to be willing to defend the colours of your country regardless if a person has done something stupid or not, the two things cannot be put together”, as per quotes from Marca.
Iglesias’ last Spain cap came in the Euro 2024 qualifying loss away at Scotland in March.
The fact that Iglesias doesn’t want to be called up to the squad shows this is an antisocial movement against Rubiales. A minor incident being blown out of proportions. I didn’t know kisses were against the law. If this happened between two men or two women, the “aggressor” would’ve been hailed as stunning and brave. I get it, it’s uncomfortable to be kissed when you don’t want to or who you don’t want to, but I doubt this was their first meeting. It seemed like they know each other well. We’ll get to the point where saying “hello” to a female will be considered aggression.