Aitana Bonmatí has become the first player to secure a third consecutive spot in The Guardian's top 100 history list, catapulting herself ahead of Alexia Putellas and Mariona Caldentey. This remarkable achievement solidifies her status as one of the world's leading female footballers.
Bonmatí's dominance on the field is matched by her dedication off it, with the Barcelona midfielder becoming synonymous with the Catalan club's iconic Blaugrana stripes. With a lifetime of over 300 appearances in all competitions for Barça, Bonmatí has woven herself into the fabric of Spanish football.
Despite facing stiff competition this year, including England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton and Brazil's Amanda Gutierres, Bonmatí remains unchallenged at the top. The 27-year-old's consistency has earned her a reputation as a player who can step up in crucial moments, cementing her position as one of the world's best.
However, injury will now force Bonmatí to miss over four months of action in 2026, leaving her team and fans eagerly anticipating her return. The Barcelona starlet's status as an icon not just at home but globally is a testament to her hard work and unwavering dedication to the beautiful game.
While many new faces made their debut in this year's list, with nearly a quarter of entrants being first-timers, Bonmatí's position remains unchanged. Her record-breaking achievement underscores the rapid growth and increasing competitiveness of women's football, which continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Bonmatí is now part of an elite group alongside Lucy Bronze and Wendie Renard who have managed to maintain a spot in the top 100 year after year, underscoring their exceptional skill and consistency. As one of the most decorated and respected players in women's football, Bonmatí will undoubtedly continue to push the boundaries of what is possible on the pitch.
The record-breaking midfielder remains the standard-bearer for her generation of female footballers, an inspiration not just to her peers but to a global audience drawn to the sport.
Bonmatí's dominance on the field is matched by her dedication off it, with the Barcelona midfielder becoming synonymous with the Catalan club's iconic Blaugrana stripes. With a lifetime of over 300 appearances in all competitions for Barça, Bonmatí has woven herself into the fabric of Spanish football.
Despite facing stiff competition this year, including England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton and Brazil's Amanda Gutierres, Bonmatí remains unchallenged at the top. The 27-year-old's consistency has earned her a reputation as a player who can step up in crucial moments, cementing her position as one of the world's best.
However, injury will now force Bonmatí to miss over four months of action in 2026, leaving her team and fans eagerly anticipating her return. The Barcelona starlet's status as an icon not just at home but globally is a testament to her hard work and unwavering dedication to the beautiful game.
While many new faces made their debut in this year's list, with nearly a quarter of entrants being first-timers, Bonmatí's position remains unchanged. Her record-breaking achievement underscores the rapid growth and increasing competitiveness of women's football, which continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Bonmatí is now part of an elite group alongside Lucy Bronze and Wendie Renard who have managed to maintain a spot in the top 100 year after year, underscoring their exceptional skill and consistency. As one of the most decorated and respected players in women's football, Bonmatí will undoubtedly continue to push the boundaries of what is possible on the pitch.
The record-breaking midfielder remains the standard-bearer for her generation of female footballers, an inspiration not just to her peers but to a global audience drawn to the sport.