Eligibility Controversy Rocks La Liga After Barcelona-Osasuna Clash

Osasuna has formally appealed to the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) regarding Barcelona defender Inigo Martinez's eligibility in their recent La Liga encounter. The dispute centers on FIFA's five-day rule after international duty.

The Core of the Controversy

• Injury Withdrawal: Martinez withdrew from Spain's national team during the March international break due to a knee injury
• FIFA Regulation: Players cannot feature for their club within five days of international duty without FA permission if they didn't join their national team
• Timing Issues: Barcelona's 3-0 victory occurred just four days after Spain's Nations League match against Netherlands

Club Statements

Osasuna's Official Position:

"Club Atletico Osasuna believes that Inigo Martinez, whose absence from the Spanish national team was due to medical leave, was not eligible to play in yesterday's match in accordance with FIFA regulations. The club has filed an appeal to protect competition integrity."

Barcelona's Perspective: Manager Hansi Flick had previously criticized the rescheduling of the match, which also forced Raphinha to miss the game after returning from Brazil national team duty.

Match Context

The originally scheduled March 8 fixture was postponed following the tragic death of Barcelona club doctor Carles Minarro Garcia. Martinez played the full 90 minutes in the rescheduled match.

Potential Implications

• Competition Integrity: The appeal raises questions about enforcement of FIFA regulations
• Precedent Setting: Could influence how clubs manage player availability post-international breaks
• League Impact: Comes during a crucial phase of La Liga season

This developing story highlights the complex intersection of club/national team commitments and governing body regulations in modern football.