Barcelona and Spain midfielder Aitana Bonmatí has further cemented her status as the dominant force in women’s football after winning the FIFA Best Women’s Player award for the third consecutive year at a ceremony held in Doha, Qatar.
The latest honour follows her third Ballon d’Or triumph earlier this year, confirming her sustained excellence at the very top of the women’s game. Bonmatí’s victory also extends Barcelona’s remarkable run, marking the fifth straight year a player from the club has claimed the FIFA Best award, following Alexia Putellas’ wins in 2021 and 2022.
Despite currently recovering from surgery, Bonmatí’s achievements over the past season left little doubt about her credentials. She played a pivotal role as Barcelona secured the Liga F title, lifted the Copa de la Reina, and reached the UEFA Women’s Champions League final.
Dembélé Tops Men’s Category
On the men’s side, Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembélé emerged as the FIFA Best Men’s Player, mirroring his success at the Ballon d’Or. He edged out competition from Kylian Mbappé and Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal to take the top prize.
PSG manager Luis Enrique was also recognised, winning the FIFA Best Men’s Coach award. In the women’s coaching category, England head coach Sarina Wiegman was honoured following her team’s Euro 2025 triumph over Spain. England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton, who starred in the final with crucial penalty saves, was named Best Women’s Goalkeeper.
Italy international Gianluigi Donnarumma claimed the men’s Best Goalkeeper award, while Argentina’s Santiago Montiel of Independiente received the Puskás Award for his spectacular overhead kick.
Strong Spanish and LaLiga Presence in Best XIs
Barcelona and Real Madrid featured prominently in the men’s Best XI. Lamine Yamal and Pedri represented Barcelona, while Jude Bellingham ensured Real Madrid’s inclusion in the elite lineup.
The women’s Best XI was heavily dominated by Barcelona players, with Alexia Putellas, Claudia Pina, Irene Paredes, Patri Guijarro, Aitana Bonmatí and Ona Batlle all earning selection. Former Barcelona and Spain forward Mariona Caldentey, now playing for Arsenal, also made the team, highlighting the continued influence of Spanish football on the global stage.
Bonmatí’s latest accolade reinforces her place among the greats of the modern game, as she continues to set the benchmark for excellence in women’s football.
