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Osasuna has lodged a formal complaint with the Spanish football federation (RFEF), asserting that Barcelona defender Iñigo Martínez was ineligible to participate in their recent LaLiga fixture. The controversy stems from Martínez's absence from Spain's UEFA Nations League squad due to a knee injury, which Osasuna claims should have prevented him from playing for his club under FIFA regulations.
Martínez played the entire match as Barcelona secured a 3-0 victory, extending their lead at the top of LaLiga. However, Osasuna has argued that his selection contravened FIFA’s rule, which states that a player excused from international duty for medical reasons cannot feature in club matches for five days following the end of the international period.
In a statement, Osasuna cited FIFA’s regulations, emphasizing that Martínez’s medical leave from the national team rendered him ineligible. "Osasuna believes that Iñigo Martínez, whose absence from the Spanish national team was due to a medical leave, was not eligible to play in yesterday's match in accordance with FIFA regulations."
The match was originally scheduled for March 8 but was postponed following the passing of Barcelona’s club doctor, Carles Miñarro García. With Barcelona’s commitments in the Copa del Rey and UEFA Champions League limiting available dates, the fixture was rescheduled to March 27, just four days after Spain’s last international match.
Both Barcelona and Osasuna had earlier appealed to delay the match further but were denied. As a result, Barcelona had to play without key players such as Raphinha, who had returned late from international duty with Brazil.
According to RFEF regulations, should a club be found guilty of fielding an ineligible player, they may forfeit the match, granting the opposition victory. Osasuna, currently positioned 14th in the table, is seeking a ruling in their favor, which could impact the LaLiga standings.
Meanwhile, Barcelona faces another setback as midfielder Dani Olmo has been ruled out for three weeks due to an adductor injury sustained during the match against Osasuna. Olmo, who featured in both of Spain’s recent matches, was substituted in the first half after scoring a penalty in the 3-0 win.
The RFEF is expected to review Osasuna’s appeal in the coming days, with a decision that could have significant implications for Barcelona’s title ambitions and the league’s competitive balance.
Featured Image Credit: Pixabay / Iwan Bettschen, Instagram / @caosasuna
