Pamplona, Spain A storm is brewing in Spanish football following Osasuna’s official appeal against FC Barcelona's use of defender Iñigo Martínez during their recent LaLiga fixture. The match, played on March 27, ended in a commanding 3-0 victory for the Catalan giants, but the aftermath has been anything but routine.

According to Osasuna, Martínez should not have been eligible to feature in the game due to a breach of FIFA regulations concerning player availability following international duty withdrawals. The veteran defender had withdrawn from Spain’s squad earlier in March citing a knee injury, but surprisingly completed the full 90 minutes against Osasuna.

At the heart of Osasuna’s protest is Article 5 of Annex I of FIFA's Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players, which clearly states that a player who pulls out from international duty for medical reasons is not permitted to play for his club within five calendar days after the conclusion of the international window.

Spain’s final international fixture during the March break was on March 23. The rescheduled match between Barcelona and Osasuna took place on March 27 four days later allegedly within the prohibited window. The fixture had been moved due to the tragic passing of Barcelona’s club doctor, but both clubs' appeals for further postponement were denied by the league authorities.

Osasuna now insists that Barcelona violated the rules by fielding Martínez and has filed a formal complaint with the Spanish Football Federation's (RFEF) Competition Committee. The club is calling for consequences, potentially including a reversal of the match result or other disciplinary sanctions.

In their statement, Osasuna emphasized the importance of fair play and regulatory compliance, arguing that the integrity of the competition must be protected. “We understand the sensitivity of the rescheduling, but regulations must apply to all clubs equally,” the club said.

The RFEF is currently reviewing the appeal, and a decision is expected in the coming days. If Osasuna’s protest is upheld, it could set a significant precedent in Spanish football regarding player eligibility and adherence to international medical withdrawal protocols.

This case echoes past controversies over ineligible players and may fuel debates over fixture scheduling, club versus country obligations, and regulatory clarity within the footballing calendar.

As the football world watches closely, Barcelona may have some explaining to do and Osasuna may yet salvage more than just pride from a match they lost on the field.

 
FAQs

Why is Osasuna appealing the match result?
Osasuna claims Barcelona fielded an ineligible player, Iñigo Martínez, who had recently withdrawn from Spain's national team due to injury but played against them within the restricted period defined by FIFA.

What regulation did Barcelona allegedly breach?
FIFA's Article 5 of Annex I prohibits players from club participation for five days after withdrawing from national team duty for medical reasons.

Was the match originally scheduled for another date?
Yes, the match was rescheduled to March 27 following the death of Barcelona’s club doctor.

What could happen if Osasuna's appeal is successful?
Barcelona could face sanctions, including a fine, a deduction of points, or even forfeiture of the match.

When will a decision be made?
The RFEF’s Competition Committee is reviewing the appeal, with a ruling expected soon