Spanish midfielder Aitana Bommati will be out of action due to a fractured foot ahead of the UEFA Nations League final second leg against Germany in Madrid on Tuesday.
The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) announced on Sunday that the three-time Ballon d’Or winner suffered a “broken fibula” during weekend training sessions.
At 27, Bommati will return to her club Barcelona for further examinations to assess the length of her recovery.
According to officials speaking with ESPN, if surgery is not required, she may return within two months; otherwise, her recovery could take longer.
This announcement comes just two days before the pivotal match between Spain and Germany at Atlético Madrid’s Metropolitano Stadium, as La Roja strives to retain the Nations League title.
The first leg, held in Germany on Friday, ended in a stalemate.
The world champions will also be missing fellow midfielder Patri Guijarro, further challenging coach Sonia Bermúdez to find options for the midfield.
Bommati’s absence will also affect Barcelona, given Guijarro’s injury, but young players like Vicky López, Sydney Scheltenleib, and Clara Serragiordi are expected to step into the spotlight.
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So far this season, Bommati has played 15 matches for her club, netting six goals and providing four assists.
Barcelona is well-placed both in the Champions League and in Liga F, leading by six points and ahead of OL Lyon in goal difference.
Fan Take: This injury to Aitana Bommati highlights the fragility of even the strongest teams, as losing a top player can significantly impact both club and national performances. It emphasizes the depth of talent in women’s soccer, as emerging players will have the opportunity to shine during her absence.
