Barcelona face grueling schedule as Flick's frustration grows ahead of Osasuna clash
LaLiga leaders Barcelona are set for a grueling stretch of matches, beginning with back-to-back fixtures against Osasuna and Girona just three days apart. With players returning from a demanding international break, injuries mounting, and key stars unavailable, manager Hansi Flick has been left frustrated as his squad faces an intense run of seven matches across three competitions.
The Catalan giants were forced to reschedule their March 8 fixture against Osasuna following the passing of their club doctor, leaving March 27 as the only available date. With 13 players returning from international duty, including several who endured extra time and penalty shootouts in Nations League quarter-finals, fatigue is a major concern. Additionally, Brazil winger Raphinha will be absent for Thursday’s match as he lacks the time to travel back and recover in time.
Raphinha has been instrumental in Barcelona’s campaign, featuring in every LaLiga match this season while contributing 27 goals and 20 assists across all competitions. His performances have placed him in contention for the Ballon d'Or, making his absence a significant setback for Flick’s side.
"We're a little tired, but we can't forget that we're Barca. If it's decided we have to play on Thursday, we'll do it and give everything we have to win La Liga," midfielder Pedri said.
Barcelona enter the clash on a seven-match winning streak in LaLiga, but Osasuna holds the distinction of being the first team to defeat them this season, securing a stunning 4-2 victory in September. Back then, Flick took responsibility for his decision to rest key players, but this time, squad rotation is unavoidable, especially with defender Pau Cubarsí also sidelined after sustaining an injury with Spain.
Real Madrid will be closely monitoring Thursday’s fixture, with both clubs level on 60 points in a fiercely contested title race. Carlo Ancelotti’s side, whose form has been inconsistent since February, will face Leganés on Saturday in what appears to be a favorable matchup against a struggling opponent battling relegation.
Meanwhile, fourth-placed Athletic Club, currently on 52 points, will also have a vested interest in Barcelona’s game, as they prepare to host Osasuna three days later. Third-placed Atlético Madrid, four points behind in the title chase, cannot afford further setbacks after a 4-2 defeat to Barcelona before the break. Diego Simeone’s side will aim to bounce back against 15th-placed Espanyol on Saturday.
As Barcelona brace for a relentless stretch of fixtures, Flick’s squad depth will be put to the ultimate test in their pursuit of LaLiga glory.
SportsLigue