Barcelona match postponed after death of team doctor

FC Barcelona has announced the unfortunate passing of the first-team doctor, Carles Miner Garcia. As a result, the La Liga match between Barcelona and Osasuna, originally scheduled for Saturday evening, has been postponed. This sudden event has plunged the entire club into deep sorrow.

The match was scheduled to begin at 20:00 GMT, but was canceled approximately 20 minutes before kickoff. Fans had already arrived at the Barcelona Olympic Stadium, ready to watch Hansi Flick's team extend their lead at the top of the La Liga table, but the stadium's big screen subsequently announced the postponement.

In a statement, FC Barcelona said: "FC Barcelona is deeply saddened to announce the death of first-team doctor Carles Miner Garcia this evening. As a result, the FC Barcelona vs. Athletic Club Osasuna match will be postponed to a later date. The FC Barcelona Board of Directors and all its employees express their deepest condolences to his family and friends."

Barcelona president Joan Laporta paid tribute to Miner Garcia on the club's website: "He was a very beloved person and passed away this afternoon at the team hotel. We are all very sad because he was loved by all of us. He attended every game, taking care of the players, the coaching staff, and everyone. He never said no to anyone. He was a great professional and a great doctor."

Laporta added: "This has shocked and saddened us because it happened so suddenly. We have contacted his mother and wife to offer our condolences and support. Carles leaves behind two children, Gerard and Anna. The players have been greatly affected, and out of respect for Carles Miner and his family, we had to request the postponement of the match." Osasuna also issued a statement expressing their deepest condolences to Miner Garcia's family and extending their sympathy to everyone at FC Barcelona and their fans.