Spain’s national team has vowed to dedicate their UEFA Women’s Nations League campaign to injured midfielder Aitana Bonmati, after the Barcelona star suffered a broken leg during training. The 27-year-old, who has won 83 caps for her country, sustained the injury at the national team’s Madrid training base on Sunday, just ahead of the second leg of the final against Germany at the Estadio Metropolitano.
Bonmati had played 77 minutes in the first leg of the final in Kaiserslautern, which ended goalless, demonstrating her importance to the team. Her absence for the decisive second leg is a significant blow, not only for Spain but also for Barcelona, where she has been a key figure in recent seasons.
Spain manager Sonia Bermudez emphasised that the team’s priority was Bonmati’s health. “Aitana wanted to stay for the final and be with us,” Bermudez said. “We told her she had to return to Barcelona to begin her recovery because, for us, the health of our players comes first. We want to dedicate tomorrow’s victory to her.”
The injury was confirmed by both the Royal Spanish Football Federation and Barcelona. Medical tests revealed that Bonmati had suffered a fracture in her left fibula. Barcelona are awaiting her return to the club to determine the appropriate course of treatment.
Spain captain Irene Paredes, who also plays alongside Bonmati at Barcelona, expressed her support for her teammate. “Absences like Aitana’s can unsettle you because no one likes seeing a teammate hurt or injured. Her absence is a significant loss for the national team and for Barca as well,” said Paredes. “You could see the pain in her eyes, and it was clear something serious had occurred. I’m sending her lots of encouragement and wishing her a full recovery, and we’ll keep pushing.”
Bonmati’s setback is a disappointing end to a year in which she achieved remarkable success both domestically and internationally. She became the first player to win the women’s Ballon d’Or three times, achieved a domestic treble with Barcelona, and helped Spain reach the Euro 2025 final. She was also named UEFA Champions League Player of the Season, cementing her status as one of the world’s best midfielders.
Despite the loss of their talisman, Spain are determined to succeed in her honour. The team has rallied around the midfielder, vowing to lift the Nations League trophy as a tribute to her contribution and resilience. Bermudez highlighted the motivational impact of Bonmati’s absence, stating that the team is inspired to give their all on the pitch.
The Women’s Nations League final represents a crucial opportunity for Spain to continue their dominance on the international stage. Bonmati’s influence on the team has been profound, with her creativity, vision, and leadership central to Spain’s recent successes. Her absence will be felt, but the team’s determination to succeed remains undiminished.
Preparations for the second leg have been focused on tactical adjustments to compensate for Bonmati’s absence. Spain’s coaching staff have emphasised teamwork, discipline, and adaptability, knowing that the final represents a moment to honour one of their greatest players.
As Spain look to lift the trophy, the team and fans alike are hoping to see a victory that not only celebrates their skill and determination but also sends a message of solidarity and support for Bonmati during her recovery. Her achievements this year have set a high benchmark, and the squad is intent on continuing her legacy by giving their best on the field.
Aitana Bonmati’s injury serves as a reminder of the physical demands of elite football and the resilience required to overcome setbacks. While she focuses on recovery, Spain aim to channel her spirit, talent, and leadership into their play, ensuring that her contribution to the sport is celebrated, even in her absence.
With the second leg looming, all eyes will be on Spain as they seek to honour their injured star while striving to secure another prestigious title for the national team. The victory, they hope, will be a fitting dedication to Bonmati and a testament to the team’s unity and determination.
