Barcelona suffer double blow ahead of Thursday’s La Liga match against Osasuna

Hansi Flick | Imago

Barcelona suffer double blow ahead of Thursday’s La Liga match against Osasuna

Kolawole Babatunde 13:49 - 26.03.2025

Barcelona will return to action on Thursday when they face CA Osasuna in a rescheduled La Liga mat following the conclusion of the international break, and they will have to deal with some absences in the game.

This game against Osasuna was originally set to be played earlier in March but was postponed due to the sudden passing of Carles Minarro, Barcelona’s first-team doctor.

Now, with the match rescheduled for March 27, both clubs are unhappy with the decision, as it means Barcelona will have to play two matches in less than 72 hours, with a crucial clash against Girona coming up on Sunday.

The Blaugrana are currently top of the La Liga table, but they are tied on 60 points with second-placed Real Madrid who have played one extra game. A win on Thursday will Barca go three points clear at the top.

Hansi Flick critical of schedule, gives report on play availability 

Hansi Flick convinced Raphinha to stay back at Barcelona last summer | Imago

Ahead of the game, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick spoke to the media and shared his frustration about the tight schedule.

“The players have just returned from international duty, but we have to focus on the game against Osasuna. I don’t think it’s the best time to play,” said Flick.

“I’m not happy with the situation. In other leagues, they handle the calendar differently, especially for teams competing in the Champions League.”

Flick also confirmed that Raphinha and Ronald Araujo will miss the match due to long flights and the need to recover. Additionally, young defender Pau Cubarsí, despite returning to training, will be given a rest.

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