BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2025: Meet the Elite Nominees
The Prestigious Award and Voting Process
The BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2025, in its 11th year since 2015, honors the season’s most outstanding player. A panel of coaches, players, administrators, and journalists selected five nominees for their exceptional contributions. Voting closes at 09:00 GMT on October 31, 2025, with the winner revealed on November 25, 2025, via BBC World Service and Sport platforms. Past winners include Barbra Banda (2024) and Mary Earps (2023). The BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2025 celebrates global talent, inviting fans to vote for their favorite.
Aitana Bonmatí: A Triple Ballon d’Or Winner
Aitana Bonmatí, 27, from Spain and Barcelona, leads the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2025 shortlist with her third consecutive Ballon d’Or. As a midfielder, she orchestrated Barcelona’s domestic treble, contributing nine goals or assists in 11 Champions League games, including a strike in their 4-1 semi-final win over Chelsea. For Spain, she scored the decisive goal against Germany in the Euros semi-final, reaching the final. Bonmatí’s seven league titles, three Champions League crowns, and nine Copas de la Reina reflect her dominance. Her recovery from viral meningitis to star in the Euros underscores her resilience. The BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2025 nominee embodies midfield mastery.
Hannah Hampton: England’s Goalkeeping Hero
Hannah Hampton, 24, from England and Chelsea, earned the Golden Glove for Chelsea’s unbeaten Women’s Super League title, sharing it with 13 clean sheets. As goalkeeper, she succeeded Mary Earps for England, starring in their Euros victory with penalty saves in the quarter-final against Sweden and final against Spain. Hampton’s two WSL titles, FA Cup, League Cup, two European Championships, and World Cup final appearance highlight her rise. Her composure under pressure makes her a strong contender for the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2025, proving goalkeeping excellence.
Mariona Caldentey: Arsenal’s Creative Force
Mariona Caldentey, 29, from Spain and Arsenal, was named WSL Player of the Year after her Barcelona transfer. As a midfielder, she helped Arsenal win the Champions League, their first since 2008. For Spain, she scored in the Euros final, though they lost on penalties. Caldentey’s Ballon d’Or runner-up spot and inclusions in UEFA’s Champions League and PFA Teams of the Year reflect her impact. Her tactical intelligence and creativity elevate Arsenal, making her a top pick for the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2025.
Alessia Russo: Arsenal’s Goal Machine
Alessia Russo, 26, from England and Arsenal, joint-top scored in the WSL with 12 goals, sharing the Golden Boot. As a forward, she aided Arsenal’s Champions League win and England’s Euros defense, scoring in the final. Named Football Writers’ Association Women’s Footballer of the Year, Russo earned Ballon d’Or nomination and spots in PFA and UEFA Teams of the Year. Her relentless work rate and clutch scoring define her season, positioning her as a prime candidate for the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2025.
Patri Guijarro: Barcelona’s Unsung Anchor
Patri Guijarro, 27, from Spain and Barcelona, anchored the midfield for a domestic treble. Though Barcelona lost the Champions League final and Spain the Euros final, her stability enabled stars to shine. With six league titles, six Copas de la Reina, four Spanish Super Cups, and three Champions League wins, Guijarro’s tenacity earned Euros Team of the Tournament honors. Her understated brilliance makes her a compelling choice for the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2025, rewarding midfield mastery.
Why This Matters
The BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2025 celebrates women’s football’s growth, with nominees like Bonmatí and Hampton pushing boundaries. Their achievements—titles, records, and clutch moments—inspire globally. Voting lets fans honor excellence, amplifying the sport’s visibility.
Key Data: BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2025 Nominees
| Nominee | Club/Country | Position | Key Achievements 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aitana Bonmatí | Barcelona/Spain | Midfielder | 3rd Ballon d’Or, Barcelona treble, Euros final |
| Hannah Hampton | Chelsea/England | Goalkeeper | Golden Glove, Euros saves, WSL title |
| Mariona Caldentey | Arsenal/Spain | Midfielder | WSL Player of Year, Champions League win |
| Alessia Russo | Arsenal/England | Forward | WSL Golden Boot, Euros goal, FWA award |
| Patri Guijarro | Barcelona/Spain | Midfielder | Domestic treble, Euros Team of Tournament |
Looking Ahead
The BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2025 winner, announced November 25, 2025, will crown a season of brilliance. Vote by October 31 to support your favorite. These nominees represent women’s football’s pinnacle, with their stories inspiring the next generation. As the award highlights global talent, the BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year 2025 continues to elevate the sport’s profile.
