Barcelona coach Hansi Flick confirmed the absence of Ronald Araujo and Raphinha for his team’s match against Osasuna on Thursday in La Liga.
Barcelona had objected to the postponed Osasuna match being played during the international break due to a clash, but the federation and league agreed and approved the date.
Flick said in the pre-match press conference on Wednesday, “Araujo and Raphinha will not play against Osasuna because the travel time will be too long.”
He added, “Playing the match on Thursday is not good, but we have to accept it. This is the reality, and of course I don’t think we can change it.”
Regarding Pau Cubarsi, who was injured with the Spanish national team, Flick said, “Cubarsi will not play tomorrow unless absolutely necessary. Eric Garcia and Inigo will play as center backs, and Cubarsi will be on the bench.”
He concluded, “I hope we don’t need Cubarsi, because I think it’s better if he gets an extra two or three days.” It’s worth noting that if Barcelona wins against Osasuna, it will take sole possession of the top spot in La Liga with 63 points, three points ahead of closest rivals Real Madrid.
