Osasuna vs. Barcelona: Barcelona’s recent 3-0 victory over Osasuna has been thrown into controversy, as Osasuna has officially appealed to the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), claiming that Barcelona defender Iñigo Martínez was ineligible to play. This claim is based on FIFA regulations, which restrict a player from featuring for their club within five days of missing an international call-up due to injury unless given explicit permission by the national federation.
The Controversy Explained
Martínez had withdrawn from Spain’s squad for the recent international break, citing a knee injury. According to FIFA’s Article 5, players who skip national team duty due to injury must observe a five-day restriction before resuming club matches unless their federation grants them clearance.
The timeline of events has raised eyebrows. Spain played their final Nations League match against the Netherlands on March 23, meaning Martínez’s restriction would have ended on March 28. However, Barcelona fielded him on March 27, just four days later, during their rescheduled La Liga match against Osasuna.
Osasuna Takes Action
Osasuna has formally lodged an appeal, arguing that Barcelona’s use of Martínez violates FIFA’s rules. In a club statement, Osasuna expressed their commitment to ensuring fairness in competition:
“Club Atlético Osasuna believes that Iñigo Martínez, whose absence from the Spanish national team was due to medical leave, was not eligible to play in yesterday’s match in accordance with FIFA regulations. In defense of our rights and the integrity of the competition, we have decided to file an appeal.”
Did Barcelona Have Federation Approval?
The key question now is whether the RFEF granted Martínez permission to play. If the federation provided clearance, Barcelona would be in the clear. If not, the club could face consequences, including potentially forfeiting the match and handing Osasuna a 3-0 win.
Martínez, who picked up his knee injury in a clash against Atlético Madrid, was replaced in Spain’s squad by Dean Huijsen. While he remained in Barcelona for recovery, he returned to full training on Monday before playing the full 90 minutes against Osasuna.
Potential Consequences for Barcelona
If Osasuna’s appeal is upheld, Barcelona could be forced to forfeit the match, significantly impacting their La Liga standings. Manager Hansi Flick had already expressed frustration over the rescheduling of the match, which affected player availability, with Raphinha missing the game after returning from international duty with Brazil.
For now, the decision rests with FIFA and the RFEF, as they review the circumstances surrounding Martínez’s involvement. Barcelona remains confident that any necessary approvals were in place, but until an official ruling is made, the controversy continues to swirl around one of La Liga’s most talked-about fixtures.
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