FC Barcelona announced the heartbreaking death of first-team doctor Carles Minarri Garcia on Saturday, leading to the postponement of their La Liga clash against Osasuna just minutes before kickoff at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.
The shocking news came after both teams had already announced their starting lineups for the evening fixture, with fans already filling the stadium in anticipation of watching the league leaders in action. The postponement was announced approximately 20 minutes before the scheduled kickoff time, sending a wave of shock and sadness throughout the Barcelona community.
Barcelona released an official statement confirming the tragic development: “FC Barcelona is deeply saddened to announce the passing of first team doctor Carles Minarri Garcia this evening. For this reason, the match between FC Barcelona and Osasuna has been postponed to a later date. The FC Barcelona Board of Director and all staff extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.”
The sudden nature of Dr. Minarri’s passing has left the club and its supporters reeling. As news spread throughout the stadium, the atmosphere quickly shifted from pre-match excitement to somber reflection. Players who had been warming up on the pitch were informed of the situation and immediately returned to the dressing rooms.
Osasuna, Barcelona’s opponents for the evening, quickly joined in expressing condolences through their own statement: “Osasuna wishes to convey its deepest condolences to the family of Dr. Carles Miñarro Garcia and would like to send a warm hug to all the staff of FC Barcelona, as well as to its fans, at this difficult time. May he rest in peace.”
Dr. Minarri Garcia had been a respected figure within Barcelona’s medical team, working closely with the first-team players to ensure their health and fitness throughout the demanding season. His expertise and dedication had been instrumental in managing the physical wellbeing of Barcelona’s squad during a challenging campaign that has seen the Catalan club battling at the top of La Liga despite numerous injury concerns.
The postponement decision was made with the full support of La Liga officials, who recognized the profound impact this loss would have on the Barcelona team and staff. No immediate date has been announced for the rescheduled fixture, with the league expected to consult with both clubs in the coming days to find an appropriate slot in the already congested calendar.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, who had been preparing to oversee his side’s attempt to maintain their position at the top of the league table, was reportedly devastated by the news. Several Barcelona players were known to have developed close relationships with Dr. Minarri during rehabilitation from injuries, making his sudden passing particularly difficult for the squad to process.
The tragedy overshadowed what was expected to be an important fixture in Barcelona’s title chase. The Catalan giants have been locked in a tight battle at the top of La Liga, with the match against Osasuna representing an opportunity to extend their advantage over their closest rivals.
La Liga president Javier Tebas released a brief statement shortly after the postponement was announced: “The entire La Liga family stands with FC Barcelona during this difficult time. We offer our deepest condolences to Dr. Minarri’s family, friends, and colleagues. Football takes a back seat at moments like these.
Barcelona’s players were escorted from the stadium shortly after the postponement was confirmed, with several visibly emotional as they boarded the team bus. Club captain Marc-André ter Stegen was seen consoling younger teammates as the squad departed the premises.
Medical professionals from clubs across Spain have begun sharing tributes to Dr. Minarri on social media, highlighting his contributions to sports medicine and his reputation for exceptional care of athletes. Many former Barcelona players who had worked with him during their time at the club also expressed their shock and sadness at the news.
The club has announced that flags at all Barcelona facilities will fly at half-mast as a mark of respect, and a minute’s silence will be observed before the next match at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys once the team returns to action.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta, who was present at the stadium when the news broke, is expected to lead a delegation from the club to attend funeral services for Dr. Minarri in the coming days. The club has indicated that they will respect the family’s wishes regarding privacy during this difficult period.
The postponement creates additional scheduling challenges for both Barcelona and Osasuna, who are already navigating busy fixture lists that include domestic and European competitions. La Liga officials will need to find a suitable date that doesn’t conflict with existing commitments for either team.
For the thousands of supporters who had gathered at the stadium, the evening ended in somber reflection rather than sporting entertainment. Many remained in their seats for some time after the postponement was announced, joining in impromptu tributes to Dr. Minarri.
As Barcelona now faces the difficult task of mourning while preparing to continue their season, the club has announced that counseling services will be made available to players and staff. The medical team, who worked closely with Dr. Minarri on a daily basis, will receive particular support during this challenging time.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of how the football community, despite its competitive nature, comes together in moments of grief. As tributes continue to pour in from across the football world, Barcelona will take time to honor the memory of Dr. Carles Minarri Garcia, whose dedication to the health and wellbeing of its players will be deeply missed.
