Aitana Bonmati has represented Spain at senior level since 2017 Aitana Bonmati is "so eager" to play in Spain's opening Euro 2025 match against Portugal despite being treated for viral meningitis just days ago, says head coach Montse Tome. However, Bonmati remains a doubt for Thursday's game after Tome warned against rushing the two-time Ballon d'Or winner back to action too soon. "We have to slow her down," said Tome, who guided Spain to theinaugural Women's Nations Leaguetitle in 2024. "She's so eager - we have to hold her back a bit. Her health is the first and most important thing." Midfielder Bonmati, 27, was onlydischarged from hospitalon Sunday but trained with the world champions on Wednesday before the game in Bern, Switzerland. Tome said: "According to the medical staff, her progress is positive. "Health comes first, and she's been able to complete all the tasks required." Two days after being discharged from hospital, Bonmati was pictured on an exercise bike after joining up with the rest of the Spain squad in Lausanne. Meningitis is an infection of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord and can be serious if not treated quickly. Spain, who won the World Cup in 2023 bydefeating England in the finalin Sydney, are among the favourites at Euro 2025. Aitana Bonmati posted a picture from hospital on Sunday Bonmati is one of the biggest stars of the women's game. She has scored 30 goals in 78 appearances for Spain and was named player of the tournament at the 2023 World Cup. A product of Barcelona's youth set-up, Bonmati has won six domestic league titles and has been involved in three Champions League triumphs. "She's euphoric, happy, and of course we'll see her tomorrow and give her a big hug," midfielder Patricia Guijarro said on Wednesday about Bonmati's return. "Above all, she's happy to be here." If Bonmati does not feature against Portugal (20:00 BST kick-off), she could play in Spain's second Group B game which is against Belgium. That takes place in Thun on Monday, 7 July (17:00 BST kick-off). Spain's third and final group match is against Italy, back in Bern on 11 July (20:00).
Spain's Bonmati 'eager' to play after meningitis scare
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"Aitana Bonmati's Participation in Euro 2025 Opener Uncertain After Meningitis Treatment"
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TruthLens AI Summary
Aitana Bonmati, a key player for Spain's women's national football team, is experiencing a mix of eagerness and caution as she prepares for the opening match of Euro 2025 against Portugal. Just days after being treated for viral meningitis, Bonmati's return to the field remains uncertain, as head coach Montse Tome emphasizes the importance of prioritizing her health. Bonmati, who has been a prominent figure in women's football since representing Spain at the senior level in 2017, has shown significant determination to rejoin her teammates. Despite being discharged from the hospital only a few days prior, she participated in training sessions, demonstrating her commitment to the team. However, Tome's cautionary stance highlights the need to avoid hastening her recovery, stating, "We have to slow her down; her health is the first and most important thing."
The Spanish squad, fresh off their World Cup victory against England in 2023, is considered a strong contender for the Euro 2025 title. Bonmati's return is highly anticipated, as she has made significant contributions to the team, scoring 30 goals in 78 appearances and earning the player of the tournament title at the last World Cup. Teammate Patricia Guijarro expressed excitement about Bonmati's recovery, noting her euphoric mood upon returning to the squad. If Bonmati is unable to play in the match against Portugal, there remains the possibility for her to participate in Spain's subsequent group games, including a fixture against Belgium and another against Italy. As the tournament unfolds, both the team's performance and Bonmati's health will be closely monitored, underscoring the balance between competitive spirit and athlete well-being.
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