Aitana Bonmatí, the linchpin of Spain's midfield and a two-time Ballon d'Or winner, has been hospitalized with viral meningitis, casting a shadow over Spain's preparations for the UEFA Women's Euro 2025. The Spanish team is set to begin their Euro 2025 campaign on July 3 against Portugal in Bern.
Bonmatí, who also won the FIFA Women's Player of the Year award for 2023 and 2024, was absent from Spain's recent 3-1 friendly victory over Japan in Leganes. The 27-year-old midfielder shared a photo on Instagram from her hospital bed, watching the match with a cannula in her arm. "The doctors say that it is controlled. Talking about meningitis can be scary, but it is controlled," Bonmatí stated.
Spain coach Montse Tomé addressed the situation, stating that Bonmatí had been feeling unwell with a fever during practice on Friday. After initial tests came back fine, a subsequent test confirmed the viral meningitis diagnosis. "Aitana is a very important player for us, and we will wait for her as long as we can," Tomé added. She also mentioned that there's no set timeline for Bonmatí's recovery and return to the team. "Aitana will be admitted and there are no deadlines yet to know for how long (she will be absent)," said Tomé.
Bonmatí's absence would be a significant blow to Spain's chances in the tournament. She has scored 30 goals in 78 appearances for her country and was a vital player in Spain's 2023 Women's World Cup victory and their 2024 Nations League triumph. Her vision, dribbling, passing and goal-scoring ability have also been crucial for Barcelona, helping them reach five consecutive Champions League finals and win three titles.
In Bonmatí's absence, Tomé started 18-year-old Vicky López in the friendly against Japan. The team will also rely on other key players like Alexia Putellas, also a two-time Ballon d'Or winner, and fellow Barcelona midfielder Patricia Guijarro.
Spain is in Group B of the Euro 2025, along with Portugal, Belgium, and Italy. They are considered favorites to win the tournament, even though they have never reached the final of the continental championship, with their best result being a semi-final appearance in 1997. According to a supercomputer analysis, Spain has a 24.8% chance of winning the Euro 2025. They are also deemed most likely to reach the quarter-finals (87.5%), the semi-finals (65.9%), and the final (38.9%).
The UEFA Women's Euro 2025 is scheduled to be held in Switzerland from July 2 to July 27. The tournament will take place in eight venues across Switzerland. Spain's first match is against Portugal on July 3 in Bern.
The Spanish team is scheduled to travel to Switzerland soon. The team remains hopeful that Bonmatí will recover in time to join them during the tournament.
