Madrid, Spain — Spanish football star Jenni Hermoso has opened up about the emotional moment she learned she had been recalled to the Spain women’s national team, describing it as a “dream come true” after a turbulent year away from international duty.
The 35-year-old forward, who now plays for Tigres UANL in Mexico, was left out of the squad for Euro 2025, despite having featured in all six of Spain’s qualifying matches. Her absence came amid the fallout from the 2023 World Cup final — when former Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) president Luis Rubiales forcibly kissed her on the lips during the medal ceremony, sparking global outrage and a landmark sexual assault trial.
Now, with new manager Sonia Bermúdez at the helm, Hermoso has been recalled to the squad for the first time in a year ahead of Spain’s Women’s Nations League semi-final clash with Sweden.
“I have to admit that I cried,” Hermoso told Radio Television Española (RTVE). “It was a moment I had waited a long time for, and I’ve been working so hard for it. To continue at this level and enjoy football with the national team again is a reward for all that effort.”
A triumphant return after turmoil
Hermoso, Spain’s all-time leading scorer with 57 goals, last appeared for her country in October 2024, coming on as a substitute in a friendly against Canada. Since then, she has focused on rebuilding both her form and mental resilience.
The forward became a symbol of strength after the Rubiales incident, which she told Spain’s High Court “stained one of the happiest days of my life.” Rubiales, who initially claimed the kiss was consensual, was later convicted of sexual assault and fined €10,800 (£8,942) in early 2025.
“For me, it’s been tireless,” Hermoso said. “I’ve had some very tough moments, but I stayed strong. Maybe at another point in my life it would have been difficult to come back — and that’s why I feel so proud of myself.”
Spain’s new era under Bermúdez
Hermoso’s recall comes as part of a broader refresh of the national squad led by Sonia Bermúdez, who replaced Montse Tomé in August 2025 after her contract was not renewed. Bermúdez has also recalled Mapi León, the Barcelona defender who last featured for Spain in 2022.
The return of both players signals a fresh chapter for the reigning World Cup champions as they prepare for the 2027 tournament cycle.
“I always knew I’d come back,” Hermoso added. “For me, age doesn’t matter — it’s about the body, the mind, and the hunger to keep going. I’ve worked every day to get back here.”
A symbol of resilience and leadership
At 35, Hermoso is now the oldest member of the Spain squad — but also one of its most influential. Beyond her technical ability and experience, she represents perseverance in the face of adversity.
Her emotional comeback has resonated not only with Spanish fans but also with football supporters around the world who view her story as a testament to courage and personal strength.
Spain will face Sweden in Madrid on Friday, with Hermoso expected to make her long-awaited return to the pitch — a moment that could mark the beginning of a new, healing chapter in her international career.
“For me, football has always been about joy,” she said. “And now I finally feel that joy again.”
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