Complete Squad: Barcelona vs Osasuna Update

FC Barcelona heads into their upcoming clash with Osasuna with mixed news on the player availability front, with some key defenders returning while questions remain about certain international players. The complete squad is shaping up with the return of defensive reinforcements, but the fitness and readiness of some players are still uncertain, leaving the team with a blend of optimism and concern as they prepare for the match.

Returning Defenders Boost Flick’s Options

Hansi Flick has received encouraging news regarding Íñigo Martínez, who has successfully recovered from parameniscitis in the internal meniscus of his right knee. After following a careful treatment plan focused on rest and physiotherapy, Martínez has resumed partial training with the squad, reporting ‘unbeatable’ sensations. Medical staff have confirmed his availability for Thursday’s match against Osasuna, providing a timely boost to Barcelona‘s defensive options. The complete squad is now shaping up, with key players returning to strengthen the team as they prepare for the upcoming clash.

Similarly positive is the status of young defender Pau Cubarsí, who had raised concerns after being substituted during Spain’s Nations League match against the Netherlands due to discomfort in his right ankle. Fortunately, medical evaluations ruled out a significant sprain, diagnosing only a minor elongation that required 48 hours of rest. Cubarsí is expected to rejoin group training on Tuesday and should be available for selection on Thursday, further strengthening Barcelona’s defensive lineup.

Spanish Internationals Return Without Issues

Barcelona’s Spanish international contingent, including both senior and U-21 representatives, have all returned from national team duty without any fitness concerns. This clean bill of health for the Spanish internationals provides Flick with additional selection options as he prepares his squad for the Osasuna challenge. The complete squad is now ready, with key players back and fit, offering a full range of choices for tactical decisions ahead of the match.

Confirmed Absentees

Despite the positive news, Barcelona will definitely be without three players for the upcoming fixture. First-choice goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen remains sidelined with his long-term injury, leaving a gap in goalkeeping duties. Additionally, the midfield options will be reduced with both Marc Casadó and Marc Bernal unavailable due to their respective injury issues, which could affect the balance in the center of the park. With these absences, Flick will have to adapt his plans, relying on the available players to step up. However, the complete squad is still shaping up positively, with several key players returning from injury and international duty. This will give Barcelona a solid foundation for their match against Osasuna, despite the setbacks.

South American Uncertainties

“The biggest question marks surround the availability of South American internationals Ronald Araújo and Raphinha. Both players arranged private flights immediately after their respective international matches to expedite their return to Barcelona, but several factors place their participation against Osasuna in doubt. These include potential fatigue from long-haul flights, the short recovery time available before the match, and the physical demands of international duty. While both players are eager to contribute, their fitness and readiness will be closely monitored by the medical team. Despite these uncertainties, the complete squad is largely intact, with key players returning from injury or international duty, offering a mix of optimism and caution as Barcelona prepares for the clash with Osasuna.

Concerns about both players center around their recent game time, the physical toll of long transoceanic flights, and their limited opportunity to train with the squad before Thursday’s match. Club sources describe both players’ status as “en el aire” (up in the air), with final decisions likely to be made following their arrival and subsequent assessment by the medical and coaching staff.

Flick will be hoping for positive news regarding the South American duo, but must also prepare contingency plans should either or both be deemed unavailable for the Osasuna encounter.