Spain’s hopes for the upcoming UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 received a major boost as star midfielder Aitana Bonmati was discharged from hospital after being treated for viral meningitis. The two-time Ballon d’Or winner is now expected to rejoin her national teammates just days before the tournament kicks off in Switzerland.
Aitana Bonmati’s Health Scare Before Euro 2025
Aitana Bonmati, widely regarded as one of the world’s best footballers, was hospitalized in Madrid after experiencing a fever and fatigue last week. Medical tests confirmed a diagnosis of viral meningitis, an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Fortunately, viral meningitis is the less severe form of the illness, and most patients recover within a week to ten days.
Bonmati missed Spain’s 3-1 friendly win over Japan on Friday, instead watching the match from her hospital bed and sharing a photo on social media to reassure fans. Her absence was felt on the pitch, but her health and recovery remained the top priority for the Spanish squad and coaching staff.
Spanish Federation and Team Reaction
The Spanish Football Federation confirmed on June 29 that Bonmati had been discharged and would rejoin the national team’s training camp in the coming days. Spain’s head coach, Montse Tomé, emphasized Bonmati’s importance to the team and stated, “She’s an extremely important player for us and we will wait for her, no matter what, as long as we have to”.
Bonmati herself posted a positive update, giving a thumbs-up from her hospital bed and thanking fans for their support. She wrote, “Fortunately, everything is going well. I hope to return soon”.
Impact on Spain’s Euro 2025 Campaign
Bonmati’s return is a huge lift for Spain, who enter Euro 2025 as reigning world champions and one of the tournament favorites. The Barcelona midfielder played a pivotal role in Spain’s 2023 World Cup triumph and their 2024 Nations League victory. With group-stage matches against Portugal, Belgium, and Italy on the horizon, Spain will be eager to have their midfield maestro back in action.
Spain’s Group B Euro 2025 Fixtures
July 3: Spain vs. Portugal (Bern)
July 7: Spain vs. Belgium
July 11: Spain vs. Italy
Bonmati’s leadership and playmaking ability will be crucial as Spain aims to surpass their best-ever Euro finish, a semi-final appearance in 1997.
What Is Viral Meningitis?
Viral meningitis is an infection that causes inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. Unlike the more serious bacterial form, viral meningitis is usually less severe and often resolves without specific treatment. The NHS notes that most people recover within 7–10 days.
FAQs: Aitana Bonmati’s Recovery and Spain’s Euro 2025
Q1: What happened to Aitana Bonmati before Euro 2025?
A1: She was hospitalized with viral meningitis but has since been discharged and is expected to rejoin the Spain squad soon.
Q2: Will Aitana Bonmati play in Spain’s Euro 2025 opener?
A2: She is expected to rejoin training in the coming days; her participation will depend on her recovery and medical advice.
Q3: How serious is viral meningitis?
A3: Viral meningitis is the most common and least severe form of meningitis, with most patients recovering within a week to ten days.
Q4: How did the Spanish team react to Bonmati’s illness?
A4: The team and coach Montse Tomé expressed support and patience, emphasizing her value and wishing her a full recovery.
Q5: What are Spain’s prospects at Euro 2025?
A5: As reigning world champions, Spain are among the favorites, especially with Bonmati’s expected return.
Conclusion
Aitana Bonmati’s discharge from hospital marks a positive turn for Spain’s Women’s Euro 2025 preparations. Her resilience, combined with the support from teammates and fans, sets the stage for a hopeful return to the pitch. As Spain gears up for their opening match, all eyes will be on Bonmati’s recovery and her potential impact on the European stage.
