Aitana Bonmatí approaches the first leg of the Nations League final against Germany this Friday with calmness, fully aware of the significant challenge that lies ahead. The recent Ballon d’Or winner reflected on her readiness for the match during an interview on Cadena SER’s El Larguero, discussing the importance of facing a team that has historically been elusive for Spain until this summer.
Bonmatí recalled the exhilarating semifinal of the previous Euro Championship, which she decided with a goal: “It was very special. The celebration says it all. I didn’t know where to go. I eventually headed to the bench… That moment stays with you for a lifetime.” She acknowledged that the tournament started out tough for her: “It was a difficult process because just before the Euro, I found myself in a hospital unexpectedly.”
Regarding Germany, she was straightforward: “We’ve played against them many times, both at the national and club levels. It’s going to be a thrilling match. They are a very complete and physically strong team.”
The midfielder also shared her thoughts on the two-legged final format: “It’s a bit strange. I prefer a single match; it feels more like a true final. We never speculate, regardless of whether it’s one, two, or four matches. If you start doing that, you make mistakes. We need to focus on the short term and try to finalize things if possible, although with the rival we have, that will be challenging.”
Physically, Bonmatí admitted she hasn’t been at her best: “I’ve been dealing with discomfort in my left hamstring tendon over the past month, which prevents me from being 100%. While these injuries don’t stop you from playing, they can make it uncomfortable. Aside from that, I feel good.”
Discussing her future and the Ballon d’Or awards she has accumulated, she humorously noted, “As for the fourth one? We’ll see. I’d rather not say where I keep the other three, because you might find it funny. They’re in a box, but I don’t want to see them every day.” She also expressed a personal project: “My village is looking to create a museum to showcase my career. It will be open to the public, and I want it to be something they can visit. I enjoy sharing my experiences.”
Bonmatí further weighed in on who she would have awarded the male Ballon d’Or to, revealing her admiration for Pedri: “For me, Pedri is a top player who is often undervalued in terms of awards. He contributes significantly to his teams. The midfield of Barça or Spain is crucial, and it’s noticeable when he isn’t there.”
Shifting to a social perspective, she reflected on the evolving relationship between young fans and female athletes: “When I was young, my idols were males. Why shouldn’t it be the other way around now? Now, when I go to games, I see children recognizing me, which is heartwarming. I never thought this would be possible years ago. Kids don’t have prejudices; it’s us adults who impose them.”
Aitana concluded with a strong critique of the state of women’s football in Spain: “The Liga F is somewhat neglected. I’m not sure who truly cares about it. Many of us have raised our voices for changes and a more competitive league. It would benefit everyone—players, teams, and fans—but I don’t understand what’s happening. We see the example in England, with a competitive and attractive league nearby, yet we don’t want to acknowledge it. This doesn’t favor the Spanish product, which is excellent.”
Looking towards her future, Bonmatí expressed a preference for a leadership role over coaching: “I’m drawn to significant positions. I believe I have the personality and desire to make changes, more so than being a coach. We’ll see what happens, but I want to engage in something fulfilling, and leading changes from my position would be one of the most motivating things I could do.”