Aitana Bonmatí broken leg has ‘hit the squad’ – Spain boss
MADRID, Spain – Spain midfielder Aitana Bonmatí has been ruled out of Tuesday’s UEFA Women’s Nations League final second leg against Germany after suffering a broken fibula in training, coach Sonia Bermúdez confirmed on Monday. The Barcelona player, a three-time Ballon d’Or winner, has returned to her club for further tests, with the severity of the fracture and a potential need for surgery still to be determined.
Bonmatí sustained the injury on Sunday, dealing a major blow to Spain’s preparations for the decisive match at the Metropolitano Stadium. The tie remains finely balanced after a goalless draw in the first leg on Friday. With Patri Guijarro also sidelined, Spain face the final with limited midfield depth.
“It’s a big loss,” Bermúdez told reporters. “An injury always impacts the squad. We’re sending a lot of strength to Aitana and hoping for a fast recovery.”
Despite the setback, the Spain coach insisted the group remains focused and motivated. Bermúdez said the team intends to dedicate a potential victory not only to Bonmatí, but also to other injured teammates, including Guijarro and forward Salma Paralluelo.
Barcelona will also be affected by the absence of Bonmatí, who has been central to the club’s pursuit of Liga F and UEFA Champions League titles this season. Guijarro is also expected to be out until the New Year, leaving the Catalan side short in midfield.
“The loss of Aitana is tough for both the national team and Barça,” Spain defender Irene Paredes said. “From the first moment, it looked serious. Losing a player like Aitana is difficult, but we have to move forward.”
Spain struggled in the opening leg but were kept level by goalkeeper Cata Coll, who produced six saves to deny Germany, led by winger Klara Bühl. Paredes said Spain improved in the second half and expects a strong response in the return match.
Up to 70,000 spectators are expected at the Metropolitano, which would set a record attendance for Spain’s women’s national team on home soil. Spain lifted the inaugural Nations League title in 2024 and are targeting a second consecutive championship.
“I would love to win it for the players,” Bermúdez added. “This generation has worked incredibly hard to transform Spanish football and reach finals. It would be historic for women’s sport in Spain.”
Bonmatí’s injury marks a significant setback for both club and country, but Spain will look to draw on their depth and recent success as they attempt to defend their title on home ground.