FC Barcelona are back on the field following the conclusion of the international break to take on Osasuna this Thursday for a match originally scheduled for March 8 but postponed due to the passing of club doctor Carles Minarro Garcia shortly before kick-off. Both teams expressed concerns about playing so soon after the international window, but their appeals to La Liga were denied.
Absences and Impact
The home side will miss Brazilian striker Raphinha and Uruguayan defender Ronald Araujo, who both played in international matches on Tuesday night. Raphinha was on the losing end of a 4-1 match against Argentina, while Araujo featured in a scoreless draw against Bolivia.
FC Barcelona, managed by Hansi Flick, is currently at the top of La Liga, level on points with Real Madrid but with a game in hand. They are scheduled to play their 28th La Liga game of the season against Osasuna and then host Girona over the weekend.
When and Where
- Date: Thursday, March 27
- Time: 4:00 PM ET
- Location: Estadio Olimpico Lluís Companys, Barcelona, Spain
- Watch on: ESPN+
- Odds: Barcelona -360, Draw +500, Osasuna +800
Last Meeting Recap
In the previous encounter on September 28, 2024, Osasuna delivered an unexpected 4-2 victory against FC Barcelona, marking the end of an unbeaten streak for the team under Flick, who had won all seven La Liga games prior to that.
FC Barcelona’s Comments
Manager Hansi Flick confirmed that Raphinha and Araujo will not feature in the upcoming match due to their extended travels. He hinted at adjustments to the lineup, suggesting that Inigo and Eric will take the center stage in defense with additional support from younger players if needed.
Osasuna’s Strategy
Vicente Moreno shared insights into his strategy, noting the unique challenge posed by Barcelona and the necessity for his team to remain adaptable during the match.
Predicted Lineups
FC Barcelona: Wojciech Szczesny; Jules Kounde, Eric Garcia, Inigo Martinez, Alejandro Balde; Pedri, Frankie De Jong; Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Fermin Lopez; Robert Lewandowski.
Osasuna: Sergio Herrera; Jesus Areso, Alejandro Catena, Jorge Herrando, Juan Cruz; Jon Moncayola, Pablo Ibanez, Aimar Oroz; Ruben Garcia, Moi Gomez, Ante Budimir.
Player to Watch
Keep an eye on Lamine Yamal from FC Barcelona, who has been in remarkable form, scoring six goals already this season. His performance will be crucial in filling the gap left by Raphinha.
Storyline to Watch
FC Barcelona faces a significant challenge with two vital players absent, and a win could solidify their position at the top of the table, pushing Real Madrid in the upcoming fixtures.
Prediction
Despite the lineup changes, FC Barcelona is expected to win, aiming for a scoreline of 2-0 against Osasuna.
