Scotland Women’s manager Pedro Martinez Losa has revealed his unhappiness at how the row over Luis Rubiales’ behaviour took attention away from Spain’s World Cup winning players.
The Spanish coach was in attendance at the Women’s World Cup final to see his country win the title for the first time after they defeated England in the final at Stadium Australia.
Celebrations were quickly overshadowed by controversy as Spanish FA president Luis Rubiales kissed midfielder Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the trophy presentation.
In the aftermath, Rubiales, who had also grabbed his crotch aggressively in celebration at a Spain goal, refused to resign over his behaviour and claimed he was the victim of a targeted attack.
FIFA have since suspended Rubiales while they investigate misconduct, and he has said that he will step down from his position.
Martinez Losa said that the incident should never have happened and that the correct action has be taken.
The manager, who began his coaching career in his homeland, says focus must then return to the players and recognise their success.
“It’s the first time I can speak publicly since the World Cup,” the Scotland boss said.
“I want to take this opportunity to congratulate the players of Spain for an incredible achievement.
“For me, it was an emotional experience as a Spanish coach, who worked in Spain and contributed to the development of the game in my country. I think it was amazing.
“What happened after is things that should never happen in society. And I hope that they take the actions that should be taken.
“For me I can’t speak farther from another association what happens in terms of judging, I work for another association in another context.”
He added: “When you win the World Cup, there’s no space for anything else other than the players and a historical victory. That’s the only thing we should be talking about for a long time, for years and years.
“When we see the challenge of winning. It was also a dream for me as a coach, years ago, to see my nation (win).
“I was in the stadium so I was really emotional. To see even former players who worked with me previously to be on that stage. There should only be space for celebration and recognition and I hope we can go to that point.
“There are some matters that have to be resolved but I hope they are resolved as quickly as possible.”
Martinez Losa was speaking after announcing his squad for Scotland’s upcoming Nations League matches against England and Belgium.
Ahead of his announcement, it was revealed that the team had withdrawn their legal action against the Scottish FA after finding agreement with the governing body over equality and pay.
The manager welcomed the news and stressed that the players’ focus had not wavered during the lengthy dispute.
“It’s obviously been a challenging period and you want to find a solution,” he said.
“For me, I’m pleased. Obviously the players thought it was an agreement that was reachable and that things could be resolved.
“I have to say that it has never been reflected in the application or professionalism of the players since day one.
“You have seen the unity and performance of the team. And I’m pleased that now we can move forward and focus on the next challenge and the next objectives.”
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