Barcelona, 2 December (H.S.):

Aitana Bonmatí, the Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder for FC Barcelona, will undergo surgery for a fractured fibula in her left ankle, the club confirmed on Tuesday. The injury was sustained during a training session with the Spanish national team on Sunday.

Following medical tests conducted on Monday, it was confirmed that Bonmatí had suffered a serious break in her ankle’s fibula bone. The club’s statement revealed that this setback will sideline her for several months, including her absence from the upcoming Women’s Nations League match against Germany on Tuesday and several key club fixtures.

The injury casts doubt on her availability for crucial Champions League matches against Benfica and Paris FC in December, as well as the Spanish Super Cup and multiple Liga F games scheduled in January.Bonmatí had started in the first phase of the Nations League final against Germany on Friday, which ended in a 0-0 draw. The club and fans alike will hope for a smooth recovery for the highly influential midfielder.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar