Barcelona appeal to have Osasuna clash rescheduled to later date rejected

The game, originally scheduled for March 8 at the Olympic Stadium, was abruptly called off just minutes before kickoff following the sudden passing of Barca's first-team doctor, Carles Minarro. While the RFEF initially rescheduled it for March 27, both Barcelona and Osasuna contested the decision.

However, on Thursday, the appeals were dismissed, with the judge emphasizing the need to play the match as soon as possible. As a result, the game will take place immediately after the international break-a move that could significantly impact Barcelona's lineup.

Hansi Flick's squad faces a potential selection headache, with several key players away on international duty. Raphinha (Brazil) and Ronald Araujo (Uruguay) will be engaged in South American World Cup qualifiers just two days prior. Meanwhile, young talents such as Gerard Martin, Fermin Lopez, and Pablo Torre are representing Spain's U21 team against Germany, while Hector Fort is with Spain's U19 squad.

This scheduling dilemma comes at a critical moment in the LaLiga title race. Barcelona currently sit level on points with Real Madrid at the top of the table, holding a four-point lead over Atletico Madrid. Missing key players could significantly impact their championship aspirations.

Osasuna, while less affected by international call-ups, face their own scheduling challenge. They are slated to play Athletic Club on March 28, just a day after facing Barcelona. However, LaLiga has reportedly agreed to reschedule that fixture, likely moving it to Sunday.

The forced rescheduling adds to Barcelona's already grueling fixture list. With limited open dates due to their continued involvement in the Copa del Rey and Champions League, the only other available midweek slot before the season ends is in late May - unless Barca suffer early eliminations.

Now, Flick's squad must brace for a demanding stretch of four matches in just nine days. After hosting Osasuna on Thursday, they face Girona on Sunday, travel to Atletico Madrid for their Copa del Rey semifinal second leg on Wednesday, and return home to play Real Betis on Saturday. Following that, they have back-to-back clashes against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, with a LaLiga trip to Leganes sandwiched in between.

With so much at stake across multiple competitions, Barcelona's depth will be tested like never before in the coming weeks.

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