Aitana Bonmati started Spain’s clash with Italy at Women’s Euro 2025 on Friday after recovering from a bout of viral meningitis which briefly threatened her tournament.
Reigning two-time Ballon d’Or winner Bonmati started in midfield alongside Patri Guijarro and Alexia Putellas, the first time this tournament the 27-year-old will be on the pitch from the first minute.
Her selection by coach Montse Tome was one of five changes from Spain’s 6-2 win over Belgium last time out.
Bonmati played as a substitute in both of Spain’s thumping wins over Portugal and Belgium in Group B, which Tome’s side lead ahead of Italy by two points.
Anything but a defeat in Bern will guarantee top spot for world champions Spain and a quarter-final clash with Norway on Wednesday.
Spain are gunning for their first ever triumph in a women’s European championship.