Aitana Bonmatí has established herself as one of the most influential players in women’s football, with a series of outstanding performances that have positioned her as a favorite for the 2024 Ballon d’Or Féminin. The Barcelona midfielder’s exceptional contributions both at the club level and with the Spanish national team have made her a standout candidate for the award.
Key Role in Barcelona’s Success
Bonmatí has been a linchpin in Barcelona’s midfield, driving the team to numerous victories with her intelligent playmaking and tactical awareness. Throughout the 2023-2024 season, she was instrumental in helping Barcelona secure another Liga F title and making deep runs in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Her ability to control the tempo of the game, coupled with her precise passing and vision, allowed Barcelona to dominate opponents and maintain their position as one of the top teams in Europe.
In addition to her technical skills, Bonmatí’s leadership qualities have also come to the fore. Often seen directing play and motivating her teammates, she has emerged as a leader both on and off the pitch, filling the void left by the absence of other senior players. Her consistent performances have not only solidified her role in the team but have also earned her widespread recognition as one of the best midfielders in the world.
A Pivotal Figure in Spain’s World Cup Triumph
Bonmatí’s impact was equally significant on the international stage, where she played a crucial role in Spain’s historic victory at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Her performances throughout the tournament were nothing short of spectacular, earning her the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player. Bonmatí’s ability to dictate the pace of the game, break down defenses with her dribbling, and create scoring opportunities was central to Spain’s success.
In the World Cup final, Bonmatí showcased her full range of talents, orchestrating Spain’s midfield play and contributing to their 1-0 victory over England. Her composure under pressure and ability to maintain possession in tight spaces allowed Spain to control large portions of the match, leading to their first-ever World Cup win. Bonmatí’s performances throughout the tournament not only highlighted her individual brilliance but also underscored her importance to Spain’s tactical setup.
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The Complete Midfielder
What sets Bonmatí apart from many of her peers is her all-around ability. She is not just a playmaker but also excels in defensive duties, often tracking back to help her team regain possession. Her work rate and stamina are exceptional, enabling her to cover large areas of the pitch and maintain a high level of performance throughout matches. Bonmatí’s versatility allows her to play in various midfield roles, whether as a deep-lying playmaker, a box-to-box midfielder, or an advanced playmaker.
This completeness as a player makes Bonmatí a unique talent in women’s football. She has the technical skills, tactical intelligence, and physical attributes to influence games in multiple ways. Her performances over the past year have been a testament to her growth as a player, and she continues to set new standards in the game.
A Strong Contender for the Ballon d’Or
Given her performances for both Barcelona and the Spanish national team, Aitana Bonmatí is widely regarded as a leading candidate for the 2024 Ballon d’Or Féminin. Her achievements over the past year, including the World Cup Golden Ball and her pivotal role in Barcelona’s domestic and European campaigns, have positioned her at the forefront of women’s football.
If she wins the Ballon d’Or, it would be a fitting recognition of her contributions to the sport and her status as one of the world’s best players. Bonmatí’s journey from La Masia to the pinnacle of world football is a story of talent, hard work, and dedication, and her dominance in 2024 reflects the bright future she has in the game.
