Aitana Bonmatí has done it again, becoming the first player to top The Guardian's Women's Footballer of the Year list for a third consecutive year. This remarkable achievement solidifies her position as one of the best midfielders in the world, a title she has held for two years now.
Bonmatí's dominance on the field has been consistently impressive, with performances in key matches including the Champions League final and the Euro 2025 semi-final. Her ability to step up when needed most has made her an invaluable asset to both Barcelona and Spain.
Despite a recent injury that will keep her out for over four months of 2026, Bonmatí remains an icon not just at home but around the world. As the best players in the women's game continue to emerge, she is still ahead of the pack. With Catalonia-born and -bred talent running through her veins, Bonmatí has become synonymous with the Blaugrana Barcelona stripes.
The rise of new talent in this year's list highlights the rapid growth of women's football. Almost a quarter of the top 100 were newcomers, including Hannah Hampton from England who shot straight into the top five after her Euro-winning performances. Vicky López, Sofia Cantore, Nathalie Björn and Michelle Agyemang also made significant strides.
However, Bonmatí remains at the top, earning 43% of the No 1 votes ahead of Mariona Caldentey with a 21% share. Her ability to inspire teammates and dominate on the field has cemented her position as one of the greatest players in modern women's football.
As the Women's Super League dominates the list with 39 players, Bonmatí's place at the top is secure. Despite Brazil moving into the top five for the first time with five players, it's clear that she remains the benchmark. At just 27 years old, Bonmatí has already written herself into history, and it will be interesting to see how the rest of her career unfolds.
The growth of women's football is undeniable, but Bonmatí's consistency and dominance make her a shining example of what the sport can achieve when it comes together as one.
Bonmatí's dominance on the field has been consistently impressive, with performances in key matches including the Champions League final and the Euro 2025 semi-final. Her ability to step up when needed most has made her an invaluable asset to both Barcelona and Spain.
Despite a recent injury that will keep her out for over four months of 2026, Bonmatí remains an icon not just at home but around the world. As the best players in the women's game continue to emerge, she is still ahead of the pack. With Catalonia-born and -bred talent running through her veins, Bonmatí has become synonymous with the Blaugrana Barcelona stripes.
The rise of new talent in this year's list highlights the rapid growth of women's football. Almost a quarter of the top 100 were newcomers, including Hannah Hampton from England who shot straight into the top five after her Euro-winning performances. Vicky López, Sofia Cantore, Nathalie Björn and Michelle Agyemang also made significant strides.
However, Bonmatí remains at the top, earning 43% of the No 1 votes ahead of Mariona Caldentey with a 21% share. Her ability to inspire teammates and dominate on the field has cemented her position as one of the greatest players in modern women's football.
As the Women's Super League dominates the list with 39 players, Bonmatí's place at the top is secure. Despite Brazil moving into the top five for the first time with five players, it's clear that she remains the benchmark. At just 27 years old, Bonmatí has already written herself into history, and it will be interesting to see how the rest of her career unfolds.
The growth of women's football is undeniable, but Bonmatí's consistency and dominance make her a shining example of what the sport can achieve when it comes together as one.