Barcelona’s 3-0 victory over Osasuna in La Liga has sparked controversy, with the Catalan club facing allegations of violating FIFA regulations. According to reports from Spanish media, Osasuna is considering appealing to the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) regarding the issue.
The match took place on Thursday night at Barcelona’s home ground, earning them three crucial points in the league table. However, the game was initially scheduled for earlier this month but was postponed due to the sudden death of Barcelona’s team doctor. Despite both clubs objecting to the rescheduled date, which fell right after the international break, their protests were overruled.
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick expressed his frustration with the scheduling after the match. However, the primary controversy revolves around the participation of Spanish defender Iñigo Martínez, who played the full 90 minutes.
Martínez was initially called up for Spain’s UEFA Nations League quarter-final matches against the Netherlands but was later withdrawn due to a knee injury.
According to FIFA regulations, if a player is withdrawn or ruled out of national team duty due to injury, they cannot play for their club until five days after the last international match unless their national federation grants special permission.
Spain’s last match of the international break was on Sunday, four days before Barcelona’s game against Osasuna.
Spanish outlets Mundo Deportivo and COPE report that Osasuna is contemplating filing an appeal with the federation, accusing Barcelona of breaching FIFA rules.
If Martínez is deemed ineligible for the match, Barcelona could face point deductions or even a forfeit of the victory against Osasuna.
However, reports suggest that the likelihood of Osasuna’s appeal being accepted is slim. Martínez was officially withdrawn from the Spain squad on March 17 after submitting his medical report on a right knee injury, which was accepted by the national team. Given the timeline and circumstances, any appeal from Osasuna may struggle to gain traction.
