Aitana Bonmatí, the brain that drives football with art and character
La centrocampista catalana celebra el premio a mejor jugadora del Mundial tras consagrarse campeona con España.
Aitana Bonmatí has become one of the most influential figures in global women’s football. Trained at La Masía, she shines with FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team. She has won the Ballon d’Or, the Champions League and the 2023 World Cup, combining sporting excellence with strong social commitment.
Origins and admission to La Masía
Born in Sant Pere de Ribes, Aitana Bonmatí grew up in a progressive family that encouraged her independence and freedom. Before choosing football, she practiced basketball and other sports. At age 13, she joined La Masía, FC Barcelona’s youth academy.
From the start, she stood out for her vision, discipline and quiet leadership. She was one of the first women to be trained in that system, paving the way for future players at the club.
Rise to the Barça first team
She debuted with Barça Femení’s first team in 2016, during a time when the club was starting to seriously invest in women’s football. Bonmatí gained minutes and confidence, playing with control, movement and precision in every pass.
Soon, she became an undisputed starter. Her role in midfield was key to balancing play and maintaining the team’s attacking rhythm. Her growth was steady, earning her a key place in the squad.
A decade building Barça history
With FC Barcelona, Bonmatí has lifted many titles: several Liga F championships, Copas de la Reina and Champions Leagues. In the 2023 final against Wolfsburg, she scored and assisted, leading a key comeback.
That performance was decisive. In every international competition, she showed maturity and consistency—qualities that made her a team leader alongside Alexia Putellas.
World Cup spotlight in Australia 2023
The 2023 Women’s World Cup was where Aitana proved her global leadership. Spain won its first-ever title, and she was named the tournament’s best player thanks to her impact both technically and emotionally.
She provided goals, assists and control in midfield. She handled pressure while maintaining focus and her role on the pitch, even amid institutional tensions within the national team environment.
Ballon d’Or and global recognition
On October 30, 2023, she was awarded the Ballon d’Or, capping off an exceptional year. She was also named UEFA Women’s Player of the Year and The Best FIFA Women’s Player. Her season was flawless both individually and collectively.
Beyond trophies, what stood out was her consistency on and off the field. She represents a level of professionalism that goes beyond performance, communicating clearly and standing firm in her values.
Social engagement and quiet leadership
Aitana doesn’t shy away from complex issues. During the conflict between players and the Spanish Football Federation, she stayed on the national team but spoke out. In her award speeches, she addressed structural problems.
She defended women’s football with calm but firm words. Her way of acting showed maturity, proving that leadership can emerge from steady action and thoughtful, measured communication.
Public image and global presence
Her profile has grown beyond the pitch. She is an ambassador for brands like Adidas, Gatorade and Visa, but maintains a sober image focused on performance rather than celebrity.
She supports gender equality initiatives and advocates for girls’ access to sports. She doesn’t seek fame but embodies a sporting role model. Each appearance reinforces an identity based on authenticity.
Future projection in global sport
At just 27, Aitana Bonmatí is already seen as one of the most influential players in the world. Her consistency, game intelligence and professional ethic place her at the core of women’s football’s future.
She’s not just driving sporting development—she’s part of a cultural shift. Her legacy, still in progress, goes far beyond titles: it opens real paths for future generations and reshapes women’s role in the sport.
