Barcelona ramp up efforts to have key internationals back in time for Osasuna game | OneFootball

According to a report from MARCA, Barcelona have been actively working with multiple football federations to ensure their international players return as early as possible for the crucial match against Osasuna on March 27.

The decision to reschedule this fixture was a significant setback for the club, as several key players were set to have little to no rest following their international duties. Some even faced the possibility of missing the game entirely.

Despite these concerns, Barcelona’s efforts, combined with the cooperation of the federations, have helped ease the situation to a certain extent.

A few have already returned

The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has already granted special allowances for a few players. Notably, Pau Cubarsi has been released to return to Barcelona to recover from a minor injury.

His condition is not considered serious, and there remains a possibility that he could be available for selection against Osasuna.

Furthermore, the RFEF has also permitted Fermin Lopez, Pablo Torre, and Gerard Martin to leave Spain’s U21 camp early.

Several first-team players will return to training on Monday. (Photo by MANAURE QUINTERO/AFP via Getty Images)

However, first-team regulars Pedri, Dani Olmo, Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, Jules Kounde, and Frenkie de Jong are all expected to resume training on Monday.

Meanwhile, Robert Lewandowski will rejoin the squad a day later, on Tuesday. Although the Polish forward experienced some discomfort, it is not believed to be a major issue.

Uncertainty surrounds Araujo and Raphinha’s return

While many players have been released early, the situations of Ronald Araújo and Raphinha remain unresolved. Both have travelled overseas for their respective national teams and have games scheduled late into the international break.

Raphinha is set to face Argentina in the early hours of Tuesday morning, while Araujo will be in action for Uruguay against Bolivia.

Barcelona have expressed concerns about their availability for the Osasuna match and are closely monitoring the situation. The club is hopeful that Araujo, in particular, might be released early, but there has been no confirmation yet.

One possible solution being considered is arranging private transport for both players, ensuring they can return to Barcelona as quickly as possible after their matches.

While this remains an option, no final decision has been made at this stage.