Aitana Bonmatí Hospitalized With Viral Meningitis Ahead of Women’s Euro 2025 — Will She Miss the Tournament?

In a crushing turn of event only days before the Women’s European Championship, Spain’s star player and two-time Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmatí has been laid low by viral meningitis and is now hospitalized. The news reverberated around the world of football as Spain prepared to defend its continental crown.

Coach Montse Tomé confirmed the nightmare scenario late Friday:

“Aitana felt ill and was taken to a Madrid hospital. Tests confirmed viral meningitis. She’s a vital player, and we’ll wait for her.”

Bonmatí missed Spain’s 3-1 friendly win over Japan, and her absence threatens to derail La Roja’s Euro 2025 ambitions before a ball is kicked.

Aitana Bonmatí’s Importance to Spain and Barcelona

Aitana Bonmatí, the reigning Ballon d’Or Féminin winner for two consecutive years, is the heartbeat of Spain’s midfield. At 27 years old, she played a pivotal role in Spain’s 2023 Women’s World Cup triumph and has been instrumental in Barcelona’s five consecutive Champions League finals, winning three.

Her incredible vision, precise passing, and dribbling flair make her irreplaceable — not just for her creativity but also her leadership on the pitch.

Who Could Step In for Bonmatí?

In Aitana Bonmatí’s absence against Japan, 18-year-old Vicky López was handed a start. Spain also has two capable midfielders in Alexia Putellas — another two-time Ballon d’Or winner — and Patricia Guijarro, both from Barcelona.

Coach Tomé will likely rely on these experienced names to anchor Spain’s midfield if Bonmatí is unable to recover in time for their opening match against Portugal on Thursday in Bern.

Echoes of 2022: Will History Repeat?

Aitana Bonmatí’s sudden health setback is hauntingly reminiscent of Alexia Putellas’ ACL injury just before Euro 2022, which sidelined her and saw Spain exit in the quarterfinals. Fans will be hoping for a different outcome this time, with Bonmatí’s condition improving in time for her to make a meaningful impact.

Spain’s Group B Fixtures – UEFA Women’s Euro 2025

• 🆚 Portugal – June 27, 2025 (Bern)
• 🆚 Belgium – July 1, 2025 (Basel)
• 🆚 Italy – July 5, 2025 (Geneva)

Bonmatí’s presence will be crucial in these matches if Spain hopes to progress deep into the tournament.