Aitana Bonmatí, Spain's star midfielder and two-time Ballon d'Or winner, has been hospitalized with viral meningitis, casting a shadow over the team's preparations for the upcoming Women's Euro 2025. The 27-year-old was admitted to a hospital in Madrid after feeling unwell during practice on Friday.

Spain's coach, Montse Tomé, revealed that Bonmatí had a fever and was taken to the hospital, where she tested positive for meningitis. Tomé assured reporters that the condition is under control, but the duration of Bonmatí's hospital stay remains uncertain. "Aitana, for us, is a very important player. We'll wait for her as long as we can," Tomé added, highlighting Bonmatí's significance to the team.

Bonmatí's hospitalization comes just days before Spain is set to travel to Switzerland for the Euro 2025 tournament. Their first match is scheduled against Portugal on Thursday in Bern. The team will also face Belgium and Italy in Group B.

Bonmatí's absence is a significant blow to Spain's chances in the tournament. She has been instrumental in the team's recent successes, including their victory at the 2023 Women's World Cup. Her contributions also extend to her club, Barcelona, where she has been vital in their reaching five consecutive Champions League finals and winning three titles.

In Bonmatí's absence, Tomé started 18-year-old Vicky López in the friendly against Japan, which Spain won 3-1. Bonmatí shared a picture of herself watching the match from her hospital bed on Instagram.

This is not the first time Spain has faced a major setback before a major tournament. Three years ago, Alexia Putellas, another two-time Ballon d'Or winner, tore her ACL just days before the start of the 2022 European Championship. Without Putellas, Spain was eliminated in the quarterfinals.

Despite Bonmatí's absence, Spain is still considered a favorite in their opening match against Portugal. In April, they defeated Portugal twice in the Nations League, including a 7-1 victory at home.