In a developing story from LaLiga, Osasuna is considering filing a complaint against FC Barcelona regarding the potential improper alignment of defender Iñigo Martínez during their match on Thursday, March 27, 2025. This arises from FIFA regulations that dictate a five-day waiting period for players who have been called up for international duty but are unable to participate due to injury.
Iñigo Martínez was initially called up by Spain for the Nations League matches but had to withdraw due to a diagnosis of internal parameniscitis in his right knee. Spain's last match occurred on Sunday, March 23, 2025, against the Netherlands, which means only four days elapsed before the Barcelona-Osasuna match.
According to FIFA rules, if a player does not attend or withdraws from a national team call-up due to injury, they are prohibited from playing for their club in the five days following the last match of the international window, unless the national federation explicitly releases the player. This is the crux of the issue that Osasuna is investigating.
During the match, which was postponed from matchday 27 due to the unfortunate passing of Dr. Carles Miñarro, Iñigo Martínez played as a starter for Barcelona. Osasuna is now questioning whether he was properly released from his national duties. If it is determined that he was not released, Osasuna could argue that Barcelona has committed an alignment infraction.
Osasuna's legal team is currently reviewing the circumstances surrounding Martínez's absence from the national team and whether the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) provided any documentation that would absolve Barcelona of any wrongdoing. As reported by Cadena COPE, the club is taking this matter seriously and is prepared to pursue formal action if warranted.
Rubén Uría, a journalist, emphasized the importance of consulting with the RFEF to ascertain whether the necessary permissions were granted. He noted, "If the federation did not authorize the player to play, then there could be grounds for a complaint." Meanwhile, Toni Freixa, a former Barcelona executive and lawyer, expressed skepticism about the viability of Osasuna's potential complaint, stating that the chances of success are slim if the federation did indeed release Martínez.
Barcelona's head coach, Hansi Flick, faced challenges with player availability, as he had to leave Raphinha out of the squad due to his late return from international duty with Brazil. Flick’s defensive options were further limited with other players arriving late or carrying injuries.
The match itself ended with a convincing 3-0 victory for Barcelona, but the aftermath is now overshadowed by this possible controversy. Osasuna is keen to ensure that all regulations are adhered to, and they are awaiting a response from the RFEF regarding their inquiry.
As this situation unfolds, the implications could extend beyond this single match, potentially affecting the standings in LaLiga and the reputations of both clubs involved. The resolution will rely heavily on the documentation and communications exchanged between Barcelona, the RFEF, and FIFA.
In summary, Osasuna's investigation into Iñigo Martínez's participation could lead to significant consequences if it is determined that Barcelona did not comply with FIFA's regulations. As the club evaluates its next steps, the football community will be watching closely to see how this situation develops.
