‘Never say never’ – Barcelona & Spain star Aitana Bonmati ‘leaving door open’ to future WSL or NWSL transfer

Aitana Bonmati has been synonymous with everything Barcelona over the last few years, but the Spain star is keeping the door open to a future exit.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Like many Barcelona stars before her, Bonmati came up through the ranks at the Catalan club, having entered their youth system at the age of 14. The attacking midfielder made her senior debut less than two years later at the age of 16 and quickly became a mainstay at the club as an understudy to Alexia Putellas. The 2023 Ballon d’Or winner has since become a vital cog in Barca’s relentless winning machine.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Bonmati’s current contract is set to expire next summer and reports in Spain have suggested that the Catalan club is planning to offer the 26-year-old a lucrative offer that would make her the highest-paid player at the club. As per recent reports, Chelsea are interested in making a move for Bonmati as they look to begin life without Emma Hayes.

WHAT BONMATI SAID

Speaking to ESPN while on Spain duty at the Olympics, Bonmati was asked about a potential future move to the Women’s Super League or the NWSL, and she replied: “I can’t tell you what’s going to happen in the next few years. I live in the present. I leave the door open, I’m not someone that says never. I will see how I feel. Never say never.”

WHAT NEXT FOR BONMATI?

For now the 26-year-old will remain focused on the task at hand: winning gold with Spain at the Olympics. La Roja are looking to lift their second straight international title, having won the 2023 World Cup in Australia. They will take on Brazil on Tuesday at Stade Velodrome in Marseille.