Barcelona’s recent 3-0 victory over Osasuna in La Liga was overshadowed by two major developments Dani Olmo’s injury and Osasuna’s appeal over Inigo Martinez’s eligibility. These events could have significant implications for the club’s season as they compete on multiple fronts.
Dani Olmo Sidelined for Three Weeks
Dani Olmo, who has been instrumental in Barcelona’s campaign, is set to miss approximately three weeks of action after sustaining an adductor injury in the win over Osasuna. The Spanish midfielder, who scored a retaken penalty in the match, was forced off the pitch in the 28th minute, with Fermin Lopez coming on as his replacement.
Barcelona confirmed the extent of Olmo’s injury in an official statement:
"Tests conducted this morning have confirmed that first-team player Dani Olmo has a right adductor injury. He is expected to be out for around three weeks."
This injury is a significant blow for Hansi Flick’s side, as Olmo will now miss crucial fixtures, including La Liga clashes against Girona, Real Betis, and potentially Celta Vigo. More importantly, he will be absent for both legs of Barcelona’s Champions League quarter-final tie against Borussia Dortmund and the decisive second leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final against Atletico Madrid.
Olmo’s absence leaves Flick with a selection dilemma. With the midfielder contributing eight goals and five assists in all competitions this season, his creativity and goal-scoring ability will be difficult to replace. Players like Fermin Lopez, Pedri, and Gavi will need to step up in the coming weeks to compensate for his absence.
Osasuna Challenges Martinez's Eligibility
Adding to Barcelona’s concerns, Osasuna has lodged an appeal with the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), claiming that Barcelona defender Inigo Martinez was ineligible to play in Thursday’s match.
Martinez was excluded from Spain’s national squad during the recent international break due to a knee injury. According to FIFA regulations, a player who does not join his national team when called up due to injury cannot play for his club within five days unless he has permission from the national federation. Osasuna argues that since Martinez did not receive special clearance, his participation in the match was a violation of FIFA’s rules.
In a statement, Osasuna cited Article 5 of Annex I of FIFA Regulations, which states:
"Unless otherwise agreed by the relevant association, not entitled to play for the club with which he is registered during the period for which he has been released or should have been released… plus an additional period of five days."
Should Osasuna’s appeal be successful, Barcelona could face a significant setback in their title race. If the ruling is in Osasuna’s favour, the Catalan club could be stripped of the three points, which would have serious implications given that they currently lead La Liga by just three points over Real Madrid with ten games remaining.
A Tough Period for Barcelona
Hansi Flick has already expressed his frustration with the situation, particularly regarding the timing of the rescheduled match against Osasuna, which followed a demanding international break.
"We have three points more, but we paid a really high price with the injury of Dani," Flick said.
Now, with a key player injured and a potential legal battle looming, Barcelona faces a difficult period. The coming weeks will determine whether they can overcome these obstacles and maintain their push for silverware on multiple fronts.
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