The Spanish futsal club Jaén Paraíso Interior has taken a bold stance. In publicly voicing its deep dissatisfaction with the management and direction of the sport within the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF). The club’s general director, Nicolás Sabariego, has resigned from all of his positions on various RFEF committees. Citing personal reasons but clearly signaling his strong disagreement with the RFEF’s handling of futsal.
This move by Jaén is particularly noteworthy. Given that the club was previously one of the supporters of the LNFS (National Futsal League) when it sought to take over management of the competitions from the RFEF back in 2019. Sabariego has since expressed the view that the situation has only deteriorated further under the RFEF’s leadership over the past six years.
Sabariego’s resignation letter is seen as a direct rebuke of the leadership of the RFEF’s National Futsal Committee, headed by José Miguel Monje. While many other top futsal clubs in Spain are also privately critical of Monje’s management, they have been hesitant to voice their concerns publicly. Due to a perceived “culture of fear” within the sport.
In contrast, Jaén has been outspoken on social media about its criticisms, particularly regarding refereeing decisions and the RFEF’s handling of ticketing for the Spanish Cup competition. The club enjoys tremendous fan support, boasting over 5,600 season ticket holders – the highest of any futsal club in Europe. Sabariego knows he has the backing of Jaén’s passionate supporters in his campaign against the RFEF’s futsal leadership.
Despite this public clash, Sabariego has indicated a willingness to work with both the RFEF and the LNFS in an effort to improve the overall state of Spanish futsal, as he remains a devoted fan and advocate for the sport.