Aitana Bonmatí: The Clásico Stirs Something Inside When You Defend This Badge

Aitana Bonmatí, both a passionate culé from birth and a player for FC Barcelona’s women’s team for the past four seasons, reflects on the significance of El Clásico, especially as her team gears up to face Real Madrid in their final encounter of the season at Valdebebas. With an impeccable record of eleven victories out of eleven Clásico matches, Bonmatí acknowledges the cultural and innate importance of these fixtures.

In a ‘Media Day’ session ahead of Sunday’s clash, the Ballon d’Or nominee shared her sentiments, expressing how deeply she feels the essence of El Clásico, whether as a spectator or a player. “This feeling in the Clásicos is something innate and cultural,” she explained. “I’ve experienced many Clásicos since I was a child, whether on the couch, at the stadium; I’ve felt them a lot. And once I had the opportunity to play in them, I continue to feel them. I experience them in a unique way. Everyone knows how they feel or experience it, but it’s obvious that when you defend this badge, something stirs inside you in these matches.”

As a fiercely competitive, ambitious, and perfectionist athlete, Bonmatí approaches the upcoming Clásico with focus, despite the looming second leg of the Champions League quarter-finals. “It’s not over yet, but I’m one to focus on one game at a time. It’s pointless to think about Brann right now. This Clásico is important enough and holds enough motivation for me to focus on the coming Thursday.”

Feeling “very good” physically, despite a demanding schedule, Bonmatí emphasizes the importance of the upcoming phase of the season, expressing her eagerness to give her all for the team. “We’re playing for everything, and it’s time to give our best and put it at the service of the team.”