Aitana Bonmatí Reflects on Injury and Achievements

omidbasir- Aitana Bonmatí recently shared her perspective on the silver lining of her serious leg injury, which has afforded her the rare chance to relax for the first time in five years. This reflection comes on the heels of her recognition at the top of ESPN FC’s Women’s Rank for the third consecutive year.

At 27, Bonmatí outshone notable competitors, including her Barcelona teammate Alexia Putellas and Arsenal’s Mariona Caldentey, following her remarkable achievements with Barcelona. The team secured a domestic treble and reached both the Champions League and Euro 2025 finals, adding to her accolades from the previous two years.

The season, however, ended disappointingly for Bonmatí last month when she suffered a leg fracture during training ahead of La Roja’s UEFA Nations League final against Germany, sidelining her for five months. “It’s the first tough injury I have had in my career,” Bonmatí told ESPN. “I may have had minor injuries, lasting one month or one and a half, but never an injury that would keep me out for four to five months requiring surgery.”

She continued, “This is a new situation for me, but I am choosing to view it positively. I see this moment as an opportunity to relax, focus on myself, and maintain a sense of calm.”

In recent years, Bonmatí has rarely missed a match, as both Barcelona and the Spanish national team have consistently advanced deep into their respective tournaments. Barcelona reached the last five Champions League finals, while Spain celebrated winning the World Cup in 2023, finishing as runners-up in Euro 2025, and clinching the Nations League titles in both 2024 and 2025.

Reflecting on her career, Bonmatí remarked, “The last five years have been remarkable, but they have also been challenging. Playing at the top level without much rest brings both victories and significant wear and tear. I believe this injury can serve as a chance for me to rest in a way I have not experienced in recent years. This recovery becomes a new objective, distinct from winning trophies; it centers on healing and returning stronger.”

If her recovery progresses as planned, Bonmatí anticipates resuming training by April. With the Champions League final scheduled for late May, she remains hopeful about contributing to Barcelona’s campaign as they seek to redeem last year’s defeat to Arsenal.

“At this moment, my sole focus is on recovery,” she expressed. “I aim to return before the season concludes, and I believe that is achievable since my injury is not the worst I could have faced.”

Bonmatí’s acknowledgment as the best women’s player in the world by ESPN follows a series of personal accolades, including her historic third Ballon d’Or and a third consecutive FIFA’s The Best award.

“I am immensely grateful to ESPN for recognizing me once again. The past three years have been both intense and rewarding, and I cherish every award I have received,” Bonmatí stated. “These trophies will remain with me forever, serving as reminders of these splendid years, and I deeply appreciate everyone who has placed their trust in me.”