Barcelona Extends Contract Of Women’s Ballon d’Or Winner Aitana Bonmati

Barcelona has confirmed that midfielder Aitana Bonmati has signed a new contract to remain with the club until 2028.

The Ballon d’Or winner’s current contract was set to expire in the summer of 2025, prompting the world’s wealthiest clubs to express their interest and apply pressure on Barcelona to secure the signature of arguably the best player in the world.

A deal has now been struck, with Bonmati inking a new four-year contract with the Spanish giants.

While the details of Bonmati’s salary will remain hidden, numerous reports state she has now become the highest-paid player in women’s football.

Barcelona encountered pressure from WSL powerhouse Chelsea, which, according to Bonmati’s agent, was ready to activate her €3 million (£2.5 million) release clause.

“Chelsea was willing to pay the €3m release clause,” Cristian Martin told Catalunya Radio. “That Barca can compete with offers of this caliber shows you that, instead of lowering the women’s budget, it’s the other way around.

Meanwhile, Barça has demonstrated its commitment to staying at the forefront of women’s football by securing the renewal of two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas and negotiating a significant new contract for Bonmatí.

Furthermore, Barca wants to continue to capitalize on the hegemony it has. It is the club that has monetized it best and strengthened its brand.”

Bonmatí has made over 250 appearances for Barça’s first team, winning five league titles and three Champions Leagues, among other trophies.

She played a crucial role in helping Spain secure victory in the Women’s World Cup and the Women’s Nations League, which earned her both the Ballon d’Or and The Best FIFA Women’s Player awards in 2023.