Is Bonmati the Next Women's Footballer of the Year?

Aitana Bonmati has had an outstanding year in women's football, cementing her status as a leading contender for the BBC Women's Footballer of the Year. The 27-year-old midfielder for Barcelona and the Spanish national team has achieved remarkable milestones, including winning three Ballons d'Or and reaching the Euro 2025 final. Her exceptional career is highlighted by a wealth of trophies, including seven league titles and three European crowns, showcasing her skill and dedication to the sport.

Last updated: 29 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Aitana Bonmati's recent accolades have sparked widespread recognition in women's football. As a key player for both her club and country, she has not only demonstrated her technical prowess but also her leadership qualities on the pitch. After a successful campaign in which she helped Spain reach the Euro 2025 final, Bonmati continues to be a pivotal figure for Barcelona, despite the team's mixed results in the UEFA Champions League.

Key takeaways

Bonmati is the first player to win three women's Ballons d'Or.
She played a crucial role in Spain's historic run to the Euro 2025 final.
Bonmati's leadership and tactical intelligence set her apart from her peers.

Timeline: how we got here

Bonmati's journey in 2023 has been marked by significant milestones:

January 2023: Bonmati begins the year strong with impressive performances in La Liga.
June 2023: Wins the UEFA Women's Champions League Player of the Season award.
July 2023: Contributes to Spain's successful Euro 2025 qualifying campaign.
October 2023: Achieves the historic feat of winning her third Ballon d'Or.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent discussions among football analysts highlight Bonmati's evolving role as a leader on the pitch. Her ability to adapt and enhance team dynamics is being recognised as vital for both Barcelona and Spain.

What was already established

Bonmati's exceptional track record includes numerous titles and individual accolades over her career. Known for her creative playmaking and tactical awareness, she has consistently been a driving force in her teams' successes.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

As women’s football gains popularity, Bonmati’s achievements contribute to the growing visibility of female athletes in the UK. This rise in interest may lead to increased attendance at matches and greater investment in women's football programs.

Businesses and jobs

Bonmati's prominence in the sport is likely to encourage sponsorship opportunities and partnerships within women's football, boosting local economies around matches and events.

Policy and regulation

The success of players like Bonmati may influence sports policy in the UK, potentially leading to increased funding for women's sports initiatives and youth development programmes.

Numbers that matter

3: Number of Ballons d'Or won by Bonmati, marking her as a standout in women’s football history.
7: Total league titles won during her career, showcasing consistent performance at the highest level.
9: Copas de la Reina titles, reflecting her dominance in domestic competitions.

Definitions and jargon buster

Ballon d'Or: An annual football award presented by France Football, recognising the best male and female players.
UEFA: The Union of European Football Associations, governing body for football in Europe.
Euro 2025: The upcoming UEFA European Women’s Championship, where national teams compete for the title.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Bonmati will continue to play a crucial role in Barcelona's domestic and European campaigns, with fans eager to see how her leadership impacts the team's performance.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the Euro 2025 approaches, Bonmati's form will be critical for Spain's aspirations. Analysts will be watching her contributions in key matches leading up to the tournament.

Signals to watch

Performance metrics in upcoming matches, such as assists and key passes.
Injury reports and fitness levels as the season progresses.
Media coverage and fan engagement in relation to Bonmati's performances.

Practical guidance

Do

Follow Bonmati's matches to understand her playing style and impact on the game.
Support women's football through attendance and engagement with local clubs.

Don’t

Dismiss the importance of women's football in the broader sporting landscape.
Underestimate the influence of players like Bonmati in inspiring the next generation.

Checklist

Stay updated on match schedules for Barcelona and Spain.
Engage with women's football content online and on social media.
Consider attending a women’s football match to support local teams.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Bonmati's achievements are commendable, there are uncertainties regarding her long-term health and performance consistency, especially following her recovery from viral meningitis. The pressure of expectations and the competitive nature of women's football may also affect her future performances.

Bottom line

Aitana Bonmati's trajectory in women's football exemplifies excellence and resilience. Her accomplishments not only elevate her profile but also shine a light on the growing importance of women's sports in the UK. As she continues to break barriers, her influence will likely inspire future generations of female athletes.

FAQs

What makes Aitana Bonmati a contender for BBC Women's Footballer of the Year?

Aitana Bonmati is a contender for BBC Women's Footballer of the Year due to her remarkable achievements, including three Ballons d'Or, a domestic treble, and a significant role in Spain's Euro 2025 final run.

How does Bonmati contribute to her team's success?

Bonmati contributes to her team's success through her exceptional playmaking skills, tactical awareness, and leadership qualities, consistently creating goal-scoring opportunities for her teammates.

What are the expectations for Bonmati in the upcoming Euro 2025?

Expectations for Bonmati in Euro 2025 are high, as she is anticipated to be a key player for Spain, leveraging her experience and skill to help the team achieve success on the international stage.