September 02, (THEWILL) – Barcelona could hand deadline day signings, Joao Felix and Joao Cancelo, their debuts against Osasuna on Sunday, in a match coach Xavi Hernandez is expecting to be a tough test for the reigning champions.
THEWILL recalls that Portugal duo, Felix and Cancelo, were brought in on season-long loan deals on Friday, from Atletico Madrid and Manchester City respectively, and have been immediately named in a 22-man squad for the trip to Pamplona.
Inigo Martinez, a summer signing from Athletic Bilbao, is also in the squad for the first time after recovering from injury while Barca welcome back forward Raphinha from suspension after his opening-weekend dismissal at Getafe.
Xavi said the newcomers have trained with the team and will assess their readiness, while praising Felix’s versatility and ability to “make the difference”. The manager is aware that Osasuna will be intense and difficult, especially at home, but said he believes his new signings can help.
On the other side, Osasuna boss Jagoba Arrasate said the team must bounce back after their UEFA Europa Conference League exit to Club Brugge. Despite the disappointment, he was proud of their performance in a challenging environment and sees it as progress.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
