Aitana Bonmatí hospitalized with viral meningitis ahead of Euro 2025

In Spain, Aitana Bonmatí, a 27-year-old midfielder and reigning Ballon d'Or winner, has been hospitalized due to viral meningitis just before the commencement of Euro 2025. She was initially taken to the hospital after experiencing a fever that did not improve, leading to a confirmation of viral meningitis after a series of tests. Her absence was felt during Spain's recent friendly match against Japan, which ended in a 3-1 victory for her team. Despite her hospitalization, Bonmatí managed to share a photo of herself watching the game from a hospital bed, underlining her commitment and love for the sport. The first match of Euro 2025 is set to kick off soon, with Spain starting their campaign against Portugal. The head coach of the national team, Montse Tomé, expressed concern for Bonmatí's health but noted that the situation is being managed adequately in the hospital. She emphasized the uncertainty surrounding the timeline for Bonmatí's recovery, indicating that her return to the lineup will depend on medical advice. Tomé conveyed the importance of Bonmatí to the squad, hinting at the impact her absence will have but remaining hopeful for her swift recovery. Bonmatí's significance to the Spanish national team is considerable, given her performance in the recent World Cup where Spain emerged victorious. Her talents have not only earned her accolades but have also helped propel her club, Barcelona, to success in the Women’s Champions League. The current cohort of the national team includes young talents who may need to step up in her absence, specifically mentioning the promising 18-year-old Vicky López, who played in the recent friendly against Japan. The team hopes that if Bonmatí cannot play, they will still be competitive in the tournament. Viral meningitis, while serious, is often less severe than its bacterial counterpart, and many people recover with appropriate care. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that recovery can occur within 7 to 10 days. Bonmatí's case emphasizes the unpredictability of athletic health and the need for athletes to prioritize recovery, especially in the high-stakes environment of international competition. As Euro 2025 approaches, the team and fans alike remain hopeful for her health and potential return to the pitch as they aim to progress past the semifinals, a feat previously unachieved by Spain in this competition.