In Barcelona, Spain, the highly anticipated home game between Barcelona and Osasuna in the Spanish league was called off on Saturday following the tragic demise of the first-team doctor, Dr. Carles Miñarro Garcia. Just about 15 minutes before the scheduled 9 p.m. local time (2000 GMT) kickoff at Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium, fans received the heartbreaking news.
Barcelona released a statement expressing profound sorrow over the loss of Dr. Miñarro Garcia, extending sympathy to his family and friends during this challenging period. While the club did not disclose the cause of his death, local media suggested medical reasons.
Barcelona defender Ronald Araújo mourned the loss, expressing disbelief on social media, and adding heartfelt wishes for the doctor to rest in peace. Dr. Miñarro Garcia, aged 50, joined the first team’s medical staff the previous season after working with the club’s futsal team.
Osasuna agreed to Barcelona’s request to postpone the match, with the Spanish soccer federation confirming the official rescheduling decision. Club president Joan Laporta mentioned that Dr. Miñarro Garcia’s sudden passing occurred as the team prepared for the game, with media reports indicating it happened at the team hotel.
Laporta revealed the immense sorrow shared among the players, staff, and coach, as Dr. Miñarro Garcia was cherished by all. With understanding from both Osasuna and La Liga, the club prioritized postponing the match in light of the unfortunate event.
Currently, Barcelona holds a one-point lead over Atletico Madrid in the league, with plans to reschedule the game against Osasuna.
In other league matches, Alaves managed a surprise win against fifth-placed Villarreal with a 1-0 score, despite facing adversity. Alaves was down to nine players due to two dismissals and dealt with an injury scare for goalkeeper Antonio Sivera. The goalie, involved in a collision with Ayoze Pérez, momentarily lost consciousness. However, he soon regained consciousness and exited the field independently. Antonio Blanco, another Alaves player, received a second yellow card amidst extended injury time in the second half. Manu Sánchez secured the solo goal in the 11th minute, marking Alaves’ first home victory since November 1.
Elsewhere, Celta Vigo climbed to eighth position with a hard-fought 2-1 comeback victory against Leganes, while Valencia lifted themselves out of the relegation zone with a 2-1 triumph over last-place Valladolid.
