The Spanish men's soccer team on Monday criticized the country's football chief, Luis Rubiales, for his "unacceptable behavior" towards women's player Jenni Hermoso.

Rubiales forcibly kissed Hermoso on the lips after Spain won the Women's World Cup two weeks ago.

He has faced growing pressure to step down as head of the Spanish football federation ever since.

What the Spanish men's soccer team said about Luis Rubiales

Spain's men's team rejected Rubiales' behavior, saying he had not lived up to the institution he represents.

They also expressed solidarity with the women players and "deplored that their success had been tarnished."

Rubiales has refused to step down, saying the kiss was consensual. But Hermoso says she did not consent.

The world soccer governing body FIFA has already suspended Rubiales pending an investigation.

Spain's sports court has also opened a case against Rubiales for "serious misconduct."

rm, nm/rt (AFP, Reuters)