Barcelona vs Osasuna match postponed after death of first-team doctor before kick-off

Barcelona vs Osasuna been postponed minutes before kick-off following the sudden death of a member of Spanish giants’ medical staff.

The La Liga match at Camp Nou was scheduled to kick off at 8pm UK time on Saturday evening.

Barcelona confirmed first-team doctor Carles Minarro Garcia tragically passed away earlier in the evening, prompting the decision to suspend the match.

The match was officially called off 20 minutes before kick-off at the request of the Catalan club.

‘FC Barcelona is deeply saddened to announce the passing of first-team doctor Carles Minarro Garcia this evening,’ a statement said.

‘For this reason, the match between FC Barcelona and CA Osasuna has been postponed to a later date.

‘The FC Barcelona Board of Directors and all staff extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.’

A message was also displayed on big screens and announced through loudspeakers around the stadium with fans already in attendance.

Marca report Minarro is believed to have passed away in his room at the team’s hotel. He had been a member of the Barcelona staff since 2017.

Barca midfielder Pedri was among the first to share his condolences, writing on Instagram: ‘I still can’t believe it. A big hug to Carles’ family and friends.’

‘We have found out because Barcelona informed us,’ Osasuna president Luis Sabalza said. ‘We must offer our condolences.

‘We have never objected to the suspension of the match. You cannot be playing a match when a person you have been living with is not there.

‘The clubs had to come to an agreement first. Then the referee was also informed. Osasuna is joining in the pain of the Barcelona family.

‘The clubs had to come to an agreement. Then the referee is the one who decides whether the game can be played or not.

‘The referee thought it was correct and the game was suspended. Osasuna joins the Barcelona family in their grief. We must continue to move forward.’

Metro.co.uk