Aitana Bonmatí has expressed that her recent leg injury has provided her the opportunity to relax for the first time in five years, following her achievement of being at the top of ESPN FC Women’s Rank for the third consecutive year.
The 27-year-old player outperformed her club teammate, Alexia Putellas, and Arsenal’s Mariona Caldentey, after leading Barcelona to a domestic treble and reaching the finals of both the Champions League and Euro 2025, adding to her accomplishments in 2023 and 2024.
Despite her stellar year with both Barça and Spain, Bonmatí faced disappointment last month when she fractured her leg during training, just before La Roja‘s UEFA Nations League final against Germany, sidelining her for five months.
“This is the first major injury of my career,” Bonmatí shared with ESPN. “I’ve had minor injuries lasting a month or more, but never faced a setback this severe that requires surgery and keeps me out for four or five months.”
“It’s a new experience for me, but I’m trying to stay positive. I’m using this time to unwind, focus on myself, and find some peace.”
In recent years, Bonmatí has maintained consistent participation in the football calendar, as both Barça and Spain have progressed deep into various competitions.
Barcelona has reached the last five Champions League finals, while Spain celebrated a World Cup victory in 2023 and secured a runner-up finish at Euro 2025, in addition to winning the Nations League in both 2024 and 2025.
“The past five years have been amazing yet demanding,” Bonmatí reflected. “Looking back, it’s been a long stretch at the highest level, with very little downtime. While there have been many victories and memorable moments, it also comes with considerable fatigue.”
“This injury could be a chance for me to recuperate in a way I haven’t been able to in years. It’s a different goal compared to chasing trophies; it’s about recovering properly and returning even stronger.”
If everything goes as planned, Bonmatí aims to resume training in April. With the Champions League final scheduled for the end of May, she could still play a crucial role in Barça’s season, as they seek to avenge their loss to Arsenal in last year’s final.
“Right now, my main focus is my recovery,” she emphasized. “I aim to return before the season ends, and I believe it’s achievable since my injury isn’t the worst I could have.”
Once again, Bonmatí has been recognized by ESPN as the world’s best women’s player after a remarkable year filled with individual accolades.
She also made history as the first woman to win the Ballon d’Or three times and recently clinched FIFA’s The Best award for the third consecutive year.
“Receiving this trophy for the third time in a row means a lot to me, and I thank ESPN for the recognition,” Bonmatí said.
“These last three years have been both intense and rewarding. I am extremely grateful for all the awards I’ve received, and I will cherish them forever, remembering these incredible years. I’m thankful to everyone who has believed in me.”