Barcelona President Joan Laporta Supports Decision to Delay LaLiga Fixture Against Osasuna

Joan Laporta, the president of FC Barcelona, provided insights to the club’s media regarding the tragic passing of Carles Miñarro, the club’s first-team doctor, and the decision to postpone their match against Osasuna.

The influential Blaugrana leader, visibly affected, stated that the doctor “was deeply cherished by everyone” and detailed the circumstances leading to the match’s postponement against Osasuna.

“He sadly passed away this afternoon at the team’s training ground. Understandably, the players, coaching staff, and all involved were filled with sorrow. He was a beloved figure who attended all training sessions, cared for each individual, and never turned anyone away. He was an outstanding professional and a remarkable doctor“, he remarked.

In light of these grave circumstances and observing the emotional state of everyone involved, Laporta asserted that the decision to suspend the match was only logical. “This is a tragic event, and during these times of mourning, we felt it was paramount to request the match’s postponement. We promptly reached out to the president of LaLiga to explain the situation. He was very understanding and has initiated the necessary procedures to formalise the suspension.”

“I want to express my gratitude to Osasuna, including their president, directors, and coach, for their incredible support and understanding. They responded with extraordinary empathy. The referees were also immensely understanding, and I extend my thanks to them for their responsiveness concerning the match’s suspension.“

In parallel, to avoid any external speculation, the club informed Carles Miñarro’s family of the unfortunate news. “This is an incredibly painful loss for FC Barcelona. We are heartbroken and in shock, as it was so sudden. We reached out to his mother and wife to convey our deepest condolences and to support them during this challenging time. It was essential for us to inform them promptly, especially as it pertained to the match’s cancellation. Carles leaves behind two children, Gerard and Ana, and understandably, his wife is deeply affected.“

“We ask for the understanding of Barcelona fans and the wider football community who were planning to attend the match. I sensed a notable level of compassion when we announced the news over the speakers, and I heard the applause in response.”

In conclusion, Laporta elaborated on the rationale behind the postponement. “Out of respect for Carles Miñarro, his family, the players, staff, coaching team, my fellow board members who knew him well, and all club employees, we firmly believe that we made the right decision. Thank you very much.”