FC Barcelona returns to La Liga action after the international break, playing against Osasuna on Thursday. This game was originally scheduled for March 8 but was postponed due to the passing of Barcelona doctor Carles Minarro Garcia. Both clubs objected to the rescheduled date because of their busy schedules and the proximity to international games, but La Liga rejected their appeals.
Barcelona will be without Brazilian forward Raphinha and Uruguayan defender Ronald Araujo for this match. Both players were involved in international games in South America on Tuesday. Raphinha played in Brazil`s defeat against Argentina, while Araujo played in Uruguay`s draw against Bolivia.
Hansi Flick`s Barcelona is currently at the top of the La Liga standings, level on points with Real Madrid but with a game in hand. This Thursday`s match will be their 28th La Liga game of the season. This weekend, Barcelona will play Girona at home on Sunday, while Real Madrid will host Leganes on Saturday before Barcelona`s game.
Match Details
- Date: Thursday, March 27
- Location: Estadio Olimpico Lluís Companys, Barcelona, Spain
Previous Meeting
Barcelona and Osasuna last played on September 28, 2024, in La Liga at Osasuna`s stadium, El Sadar. Osasuna won the match 4-2, ending Barcelona`s perfect start to the season under their new coach. Flick had previously won all seven La Liga matches he had managed in the 2024-25 season.
Barcelona`s Team News
Coach Hansi Flick confirmed that Raphinha and Araujo would not be in the squad for the Osasuna game during the pre-match press conference. He mentioned their long travel and limited recovery time. With Araujo absent, Flick announced that Inigo Martinez and Eric Garcia will play in defense, and young player Cubarsi will be on the bench to rest but could be called upon if needed.
Osasuna`s Perspective
Osasuna`s coach, Vicente Moreno, told the media before the game that they are prepared for changes and will adapt their plans accordingly. He acknowledged Barcelona`s strength, especially at home, making it challenging for opponents to implement their game plan.
Predicted Lineups
FC Barcelona: Szczesny; Kounde, Garcia, Martinez, Balde; Pedri, De Jong; Yamal, Olmo, Fermin; Lewandowski.
Osasuna: Herrera; Areso, Catena, Herrando, Cruz; Moncayola, Ibanez, Oroz; Ru. Garcia, Gomez, Budimir.
Key Player to Watch
Lamine Yamal, FC Barcelona: With Raphinha out, young Spanish talent Lamine Yamal will be crucial for Barcelona. He has had an impressive season, scoring six La Liga goals in 24 games. He also recently scored a notable goal for Spain against the Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals.
Match Storyline
Barcelona to Overcome Absences: As the coach mentioned, Barcelona faces a challenge due to key player absences, particularly Raphinha and Araujo. Barcelona had requested a postponement due to the short recovery time after international duty, but La Liga denied this request. A win for Barcelona would give them a significant lead over Real Madrid in the league table.
Match Prediction
Despite the missing players, Barcelona is expected to win at home and increase pressure on their rivals, especially Real Madrid, who play Leganes on Saturday. Prediction: FC Barcelona 2, Osasuna 0.
