Barcelona announce tragic passing of first-team doctor as La Liga clash against Osasuna is postponed 20 minutes before kick-off

The Catalans were in the dressing room preparing to take on Osasuna when president Joan Laporta informed the team that Minarro García had passed away, according to Mundo Deportivo. The announcement left the players shocked and saddened and the team captains subsequently asked for the game to be called off. Minarro García had spent time with the players at the team hotel and had lunch with the team but passed away before the game.

Barcelona confirmed the news in a statement on social media that read: "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."

Osasuna posted the following tribute: "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."

La Liga also issued an update and confirmed new date for the match will be announced in due course: "LALIGA regrets the passing of Dr. Carles Miñarro, FC Barcelona’s first-team doctor, and announces that, for this reason, today's match between Barcelona and Osauna has been postponed, pending the decision of the single judge of Competitions. LALIGA would like to express its deepest condolences to his family, friends, the club, and its supporters, and shares in their sorrow. The new date and time for the match will be announced soon."

According to reports in Spain, the match could be played on the weekend of April 26 and 27, if Barcelona fail to qualify for the Copa del Rey final. The other weekend would be in the week of May 19 to 25, with no midweek match scheduled. The final round of La Liga games will be played on Sunday, May 25.