Jorge Vilda Takes the Reins as Morocco Women’s Team Coach

Former Spain manager Jorge Vilda has been named as the head coach of the Morocco women’s national football team. Vilda, who previously led the Spanish women’s team to World Cup victory in the summer, has taken on this new role after being dismissed a month later amid the Luis Rubiales scandal.

Vilda’s tenure with the Spanish women’s national team reached its peak when they clinched the Women’s World Cup title, defeating England 1-0 in the final. However, the celebration was short-lived as he was relieved of his duties due to the fallout from the Rubiales incident. This turn of events led to his departure from the Spanish national team.

In his new role, Jorge Vilda succeeds Reynald Pedros, the former coach who guided the Moroccan women’s team to their first Women’s World Cup qualification in 2023. Under Pedros’ leadership, Morocco reached the last 16 in the tournament, ultimately losing to France.

The Moroccan football federation made an official announcement regarding the appointment, stating, “The Royal Moroccan Football Federation contracted the Spanish coach Mr. Vilda to coach the women’s national football team in the next stage.” The federation expressed its gratitude to Reynald Pedros for his accomplishments, particularly leading the team to the second round of the World Cup.

The World Cup final between Spain and England in August was marked by controversy when Luis Rubiales, the former Spanish football federation (RFEF) president, kissed forward Jenni Hermoso in a manner she later described as non-consensual. This incident overshadowed Spain’s victory, and Rubiales has since faced allegations of sexual assault and coercion. Jorge Vilda, who is believed to be closely associated with Rubiales, is also under investigation in connection with this case, particularly concerning the alleged coercion of Jenni Hermoso.

Spanish media reports have indicated that Vilda is being probed for his involvement in pressuring Hermoso, her family, and friends to support Rubiales’ actions. Jorge Vilda, however, has denied any wrongdoing in this matter.

Vilda’s time as the head coach of the Spanish national team was not without controversy. In September 2022, he faced a player ‘revolt’ when 15 players submitted identical emails expressing concerns about their “emotional state” and “health.” While ‘Las 15,’ as the players became known, denied demanding Vilda’s dismissal, tensions arose due to reported issues with training methods and game preparation.

Jorge Vilda’s new role with the Moroccan women’s national team marks an intriguing chapter in his coaching career. As he takes charge of this team, it will be fascinating to see how he steers Morocco’s women’s football toward further success.