Spanish women's football continues its impressive run. This Tuesday, midfielder Aitana Bonmati received the FIFA The Best 2025 award, recognising her as the planet's best player for the third consecutive year, based on her performances during the latest official season. "I am grateful to have the honour," she said, before thanking her team-mates and coaches, as well as the fans who voted for her.

The 27-year-old Barcelona W and Spain international completed a 'triple double' by also claiming her third Ballon d'Or on 22 September. This marks a significant milestone for the country's sport, extending a magical five-year period that began with Alexia Putellas's two previous awards.

During the 'France Football' gala, it initially seemed the award might go to one of the Women's European Championship and UEFA Women's Champions League 2024-25 winners with Arsenal, such as Alessia Russo, or her teammate Mariona Caldentey, a runner-up with Spain. However, following the Ballon d'Or precedent, predictions for this The Best award leaned heavily towards the Barcelona star.

Ultimately, Aitana triumphed in the voting over other global football stars, including teammates Patri Guijarro, Claudia Pina, Ewa Pajor, and Alexia Putellas. She also surpassed England internationals Lucy Bronze, Chloe Kelly, and the aforementioned Alessia Russo, as well as fellow Spanish player Mariona Caldentey, both of whom were among the favourites for their success with the 'Gunners'.

Treble with Barca and two finals

Aitana Bonmati Conca (born 18 January 1998 in Sant Pere de Ribes, Barcelona, Spain) earned this recognition for her spectacular individual talent. Her exceptional vision, passing quality, and attacking prowess stood out. With Barca, she featured in 44 official matches, scoring 16 goals and providing 12 assists. Her contributions helped secure the domestic treble: the Liga F, Copa de la Reina, and Spanish Supercup.

Meanwhile, Pere Romeu's Blaugrana side narrowly missed out on the ultimate prize in the UEFA Champions League final. Stina Blackstenius's goal proved the difference, clinching the trophy for Arsenal at the Estadio Jose Alvalade in Lisbon, Portugal. With the Spain national team, she played another 14 matches during the 2024-25 campaign, contributing five goals and four assists, including the crucial strike that propelled 'La Roja' to the Women's EURO final, where England ultimately prevailed on penalties.

Despite winning the Nations League title – which will count towards the next The Best award – this new season has not started ideally for Aitana. On 2 December, she sustained a fractured fibula in her left leg, an injury expected to sideline her for approximately five months. The Blaugrana player, along with other Barca nominees, missed the gala dinner held this Tuesday in Doha, Qatar, on the eve of the PSG v Flamengo Intercontinental Cup 2025 match.

Aitana

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