Aitana Bonmati, Barcelona and Spain captain, faces a significant setback after undergoing surgery on a broken leg. The 27-year-old midfielder is expected to be sidelined for five months, dealing a blow to both her club and national team campaigns.

Injury Details

Bonmati sustained the injury during a Spain national team training session in Madrid while preparing for the second leg of the Women’s Nations League final against Germany. The fall occurred on Sunday, prompting immediate medical attention and surgery.

On social media, Bonmati shared an optimistic update:

“The surgery went well. Now it’s time to start a new challenge, regenerating both physically and mentally. Elite football pushes you to the limit in all aspects, and there were factors preventing me from fully enjoying the profession.”

She emphasized that the injury offers her a chance to reflect and recover:

“With this lesson, I face what comes convinced it will be a learning experience.”

Expected Recovery

Barcelona confirmed that Bonmati’s recovery will take around five months, likely keeping her out for nearly the entire remainder of the season. The club’s final Liga F match is scheduled for 31 May, and the Women’s Champions League final takes place the previous weekend, meaning she will miss both crucial fixtures.

Career Achievements

This season, Bonmati cemented her status as one of the world’s best players. She became the first-ever player to win the women’s Ballon d’Or three times, highlighting her exceptional talent and consistency. Additionally, UEFA named her the Champions League Player of the Season, capping a year in which she helped Barcelona win the 2024-25 domestic treble and led Spain to the Euro 2025 final.

Impact on Barcelona

Bonmati’s injury adds to Barcelona’s mounting fitness concerns. Key midfielders Patri Guijarro (out until January) and Kika Nazareth (three-week absence) are already sidelined, while winger Salma Paralluelo and forward Ewa Pajor face their own injury recoveries.

Despite being top of Liga F, six points ahead of Real Sociedad Femenino, Barcelona coach Pere Romeu will need to adjust tactics and rely on younger or less experienced players in midfield and attack.

Bonmati had already contributed significantly this season, with 15 appearances, 13 starts, six goals, and three assists, making her absence a major challenge for the team.

Looking Ahead

While recovery will keep Bonmati off the pitch until at least May 2026, her return will be crucial for Barcelona’s domestic and European campaigns next season. The midfielder’s leadership and creative influence are key to both Barcelona and Spain’s success, and her rehabilitation will be closely monitored.