Osasuna will host Barcelona at El Sadar on Saturday night, with the Catalan club having the opportunity to move one step closer to securing the league title with a victory. Meanwhile, Osasuna is strongly competing for a European spot, currently trailing Getafe by just two points for sixth place after a dramatic last-minute win against Sevilla last week.
Currently, Osasuna sits ninth in La Liga, with an eight-point cushion over Sevilla, making them relatively safe from relegation. For the home team, a significant blow is the absence of star winger Victor Muñoz due to injury. Barcelona, on the other hand, welcomes back Raphinha and Marc Bernal from their respective injuries, although their own star winger, Lamine Yamal, remains sidelined. Additionally, defenders Andreas Christensen (injured) and Jules Kounde (suspended) will also miss the match.
Striker Decision for Barcelona: Lewandowski or Ferran Torres?
For coach Hansi Flick, the primary selection dilemma appears to be in the forward position. While Mundo Deportivo suggests Robert Lewandowski will lead the line, Sport believes Ferran Torres will get the nod. Both publications agree that Roony Bardghji is likely to start for the second consecutive match, filling in for the absent Lamine Yamal. Eric Garcia is expected to step in to cover the void left by Kounde’s suspension.
Beyond these potential changes, Flick is not anticipated to alter the lineup that secured a 2-0 victory over Getafe last weekend. Players like Gavi, Fermín López, Pedri, and Dani Olmo are all expected to retain their starting spots.
Osasuna’s Plan to Replace Victor Muñoz
It is highly probable that Raul Moro will deputize for Muñoz on the left wing for Osasuna. However, manager Alessio Lisci is also inclined to maintain a consistent lineup for this crucial clash. Ante Budimir is set to spearhead the attack, with Rubén García and Aimar Oroz providing support from behind him.
In the midfield, Iker Muñoz seems to be favored over the more physically robust Lucas Torró to partner Jon Moncayola. Osasuna’s recent form has been inconsistent, with only two wins in their last eight games, though they have only suffered one defeat in their last five home matches. In contrast, Barcelona is currently on an impressive nine-game winning streak in La Liga.