Hansi Flick Confirms Raphinha and Araujo Will Miss Osasuna Clash Due to Exhausting Travel and Rest Needs

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has confirmed that key players Raphinha and Ronald Araujo will miss the upcoming La Liga match against Osasuna due to their recent international commitments and the extensive travel required to return to Spain.

Flick stated, "They won’t play or be in the team. They’re out. The flight is long and it’s not the most optimal situation." 

The match, rescheduled following the untimely passing of club doctor Carles Miñarro, is set for Thursday evening at the Estadi Olímpic. Flick expressed dissatisfaction with the timing, highlighting the challenges posed by the condensed schedule and limited recovery periods for players returning from international duty. He remarked, "I am not happy about it." 

In their absence, Flick has indicated that Eric Garcia and Inigo Martinez will form the central defensive pairing against Osasuna. Pau Cubarsi, recovering from an ankle injury sustained during international play, is expected to be available from the bench. 

Despite these challenges, Flick remains optimistic about his team's prospects, emphasizing the importance of securing three points in this crucial league fixture. He concluded, "We have a good team, and what I’ve seen in training has been positive. We have to fight for the three points."