Celta de Vigo Coach Claudio Giráldez Addresses Key Transfers and Squad Dynamics Ahead of Liga Match Against Osasuna Claudio Giráldez, the head coach of Celta de Vigo, held a press conference ahead of the club’s first La Liga match at home of the season against Osasuna. The session focused on the latest developments in the transfer market, player availability, and the team’s preparations for the crucial encounter. Giráldez emphasized the importance of maintaining focus on the upcoming game while addressing concerns about key players and the club’s financial strategy. Giráldez discussed the status of Driouech, who is expected to return to training after a recent trip. The coach acknowledged the player’s potential contribution but stressed the need for patience, stating that Driouech must integrate with the team and demonstrate readiness before being included in the matchday squad. “We want him to contribute as soon as possible, but he needs to adapt to our system and build trust with the team,” Giráldez said. The coach also addressed the situation surrounding Javi Rueda, a key midfielder whose future remains uncertain due to interest from Nottingham Forest. Giráldez expressed confidence that Rueda would remain at the club, calling him “important for the dressing room” and emphasizing the club’s commitment to retaining players. “We want him here, and I believe the club will make the right decision,” he said, though he clarified that he does not have authority over transfer decisions. Giráldez acknowledged the club’s financial constraints but highlighted the importance of balancing economic realities with sporting ambitions. He noted that while Celta cannot compete with the financial power of larger clubs, the team’s players have shown willingness to stay despite lower wages.#celta_de_vigo #osasuna #claudio_giraldz #driouech #javi_rueda

Mikel Merino, the Spanish Hero of the 2026 World Cup, Returns to the International Stage Mikel Merino, the Spanish footballer hailed as the "hero of Spain," is set to play a pivotal role in the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The center midfielder, known for his crucial goal in Spain’s historic Euro 2024 campaign, is once again donning the national team jersey for the global tournament. His performance in the 2024 European Championship, where he scored the decisive 2-1 goal against Germany in a dramatic extra-time match, solidified his status as a key player in Spain’s quest for continental glory. Merino’s return to the international stage comes after a two-year absence from the World Cup due to a technical decision that excluded him from the 2022 Qatar tournament. However, his resurgence under coach Luis de la Fuente has been instrumental in Spain’s recent successes. The 2024 match against Germany, which took place on July 5, 2024, marked a defining moment in his career. With the score tied 1-1 in extra time, Merino found himself in the penalty area, where he headed a cross from Dani Olmo to secure the 2-1 victory. This goal not only secured Spain’s place in the next round but also ignited hopes of a potential title in the 2026 tournament. The goal was more than a sporting achievement; it carried personal significance for Merino. After scoring, he ran toward the corner flag, a gesture that paid tribute to his father, Miguel Merino, a former professional footballer who had made the same move in the same stadium three decades earlier. This moment underscored the deep connection between Merino’s footballing legacy and his family’s history in the sport. Born in Pamplona in 1996, Merino’s life has been intertwined with sports from an early age.#osasuna #borussia_dortmund #dani_olmo #luis_de_la_fuente #mikel_merino

Osasuna's Survival Bid Against Espanyol in High-Stakes Clash Osasuna faces a critical match against RCD Espanyol in a high-pressure encounter that could determine their survival in La Liga. The club, currently three points away from the relegation zone, must secure a victory after suffering four consecutive defeats in their last five games. Coach Alessio Lisci has opted to start Víctor Muñoz in the lineup despite the player not being fully fit, a decision that highlights the urgency of the situation. Lisci believes Muñoz’s inclusion can bring much-needed creativity and dynamism to the team, which has struggled to maintain consistency in recent weeks. The stakes for Osasuna are immense, as every point is crucial in their fight to avoid the drop. The team’s recent form has been alarming, with a string of losses that have left them in a precarious position. The match at El Sadar is expected to be a test of resilience, with fans demanding a gritty performance under intense pressure. Lisci has emphasized the need for a strong personality on the pitch, as the team must overcome the weight of expectations and the threat of relegation. Espanyol, meanwhile, has also fielded its top players, signaling their awareness of the match’s significance. The Blanquiazul squad includes experienced forwards Kike García and Pere Milla, a dynamic duo known for their ability to create scoring opportunities. Their presence poses a significant challenge for Osasuna’s defense, which will need to remain focused and disciplined throughout the game. The combination of Espanyol’s attacking threat and Osasuna’s desperate need for a win elevates the intensity of the encounter. For both clubs, the outcome of this match could be a turning point in their seasons.#osasuna #kike_garcia #victor_munoz #rcd_espanyol #pere_milla

Cameroon striker breaks six-month drought to give Levante priceless win in La Liga Levante secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over 10-man Osasuna in La Liga on Friday, with Cameroon striker Karl Etta Eyong scoring his first goal in over six months to lift the club out of the relegation zone. The match, played at Valencia’s Mestalla Stadium, saw a thrilling turnaround as the hosts overcame a two-goal deficit to claim third place from bottom in the table. Etta Eyong, who had gone 22 matches without a league goal since October, delivered a stoppage-time header to seal the win. The 28-year-old forward, who had previously scored six goals in his first 10 league matches of the season, had been a key figure for Levante but had struggled to find form in recent months. His late strike, which came after he replaced Pablo Martínez in the 76th minute, sent the home crowd into euphoria and marked a crucial moment for the struggling side. The match began with Osasuna taking an early lead, as Jeremy Toljan conceded an own goal just 160 seconds into the game. Ante Budimir extended the visitors’ advantage eight minutes later, netting his 18th league goal of the season with a low strike into the corner. Levante, however, responded with a spirited second-half surge. Víctor García, the team’s full-back, played a pivotal role in the comeback, scoring twice in a span of two minutes to level the scores. García’s first goal came from a corner, as he darted to the far post to convert the set piece. His second, a 30-meter free-kick, was a spectacular effort that sailed over the goalkeeper’s head, leaving the Osasuna keeper with no chance.#osasuna #valencia #mestalla_stadium #levante #karl_etta_eyong

Osasuna visita al Alavés en jornada 30 de LaLiga | Fútbol | Cadena SER El partido entre Osasuna y Alavés se disputará este domingo 5 de abril a las 21:00 horas, en la jornada 30 de la Liga Santander. Los rojillos, que ocupan la décima posición en la clasificación, enfrentarán al conjunto alavesista en un duelo que podría definir su trayectoria en la temporada. Osasuna cuenta con nueve puntos de ventaja sobre la zona de descenso, seis puntos por encima del Alavés y un punto de distancia con la séptima plaza. El encuentro será seguido en directo por Carrusel Deportivo Navarra desde las 20:30 horas, así como en la plataforma SER+ y en la aplicación de la Cadena SER. El partido se jugará en el estadio Mendizorroza, el mejor recinto de Osasuna tras el cierre del estadio Sadar. Este lugar tiene un historial significativo para la afición rojilla. En 1989, el Mendizorroza fue escenario de tres partidos de sanción tras la finalización del Sadar, tras un enfrentamiento contra el Real Madrid. En aquel momento, más de diez mil aficionados se desplazaron al estadio para presenciar dos victorias clave: la primera contra el Celta en la Copa del Rey, aunque fue eliminado en la tanda de penaltis, y la segunda contra el Murcia. Sin embargo, el partido contra el Valladolid terminó en derrota. Casi una década después, el Mendizorroza volvió a ser testigo de un momento crucial para la permanencia de Osasuna. En el año 1997, el estadio acogió una victoria por la mínima que evitó el descenso a Segunda B, un episodio conocido como el "primer milagro de Martín". Este triunfo fue fundamental para mantener la categoría del club en una época de dificultades. El estadio Mendizorroza no solo es un espacio físico, sino también un símbolo de la historia del fútbol osasunista.#osasuna #alaves #liga_santander #estadio_mendizorroza #carrusel_deportivo_navarra

Alavés y Osasuna se enfrentan en un derbi crucial este domingo en Mendizorrotza, donde ambos equipos buscan consolidar su posición en la Liga Santander. El partido, programado para las 21:00 horas, marcará el cierre de la jornada dominical y tendrá un contexto especial debido al ascenso de la selección femenina albiazul a la Liga F, que se celebrará antes del choque. El Alavés, que busca alejarse del descenso tras una mala racha, llega al partido tras una victoria en su último partido, mientras que el Osasuna, con 37 puntos, aspira a seguir en la pelea por los puestos europeos. El técnico del Alavés, Quique Sánchez Flores, destacó la importancia de mantener la continuidad tras la remontada de Vigo, que le dio oxígeno para evitar el descenso. Sin embargo, el equipo enfrentará desafíos, ya que Lucas Boyé, con problemas de fascitis plantar, no podrá jugar, y la dupla ofensiva será Toni Martínez e Ibrahim Diabaté. Protesoni, lesionado, tampoco estará, mientras que Facundo Garcés y Denis Suárez están sancionados. El Osasuna, por su parte, busca superar la frustración de la temporada pasada, cuando no logró clasificarse para Europa. Alessio Lisci, entrenador del equipo, enfatizó la necesidad de mantener la humildad y no caer en la ambición excesiva. "Queremos ganar, pero no nos llevemos de sobrados", declaró, recordando la frustración del año anterior. El técnico también destacó la solidez del equipo, su capacidad para defender bien y generar ocasiones, lo que le da confianza para enfrentar al Alavés. El partido tendrá un contexto adicional con el homenaje al equipo femenino, que este sábado se consagró en la Liga F tras tres años de ausencia.#osasuna #alessio_lisci #alaves #mendizorrotza #liga_santander

Ante Budimir's Goal Odds and Match Preview for Osasuna vs. Girona FC on March 21 CA Osasuna and Girona FC are set to face off on Saturday, March 21, in a LaLiga match scheduled for 1:30 PM ET. Ante Budimir, a key player for Osasuna, is expected to be in the spotlight as fans and bettors analyze his chances of scoring a goal in the game. The match will be closely watched for its implications on both teams’ standings and individual player performances. Budimir’s odds of netting a goal against Girona FC are currently being tracked by sportsbooks, with BetMGM Sportsbook providing updated projections as of Saturday at 12:40 PM ET. The odds reflect a combination of Budimir’s recent form, his team’s attacking tendencies, and Girona’s defensive record. However, the exact probabilities are subject to change as the match approaches, influenced by factors such as player injuries, weather conditions, and in-game dynamics. Looking at Osasuna’s recent performance, the team suffered a 3-1 defeat in their previous match against Real Sociedad. The game saw Osasuna outshot by three in total, with 16 shots compared to Real Sociedad’s 13. This statistic highlights a potential weakness in Osasuna’s attacking strategy or defensive organization, which could impact their approach against Girona. Meanwhile, Girona FC’s defensive capabilities will be a critical factor in determining the outcome of the match. The match is part of a broader LaLiga season that has seen intense competition and fluctuating form across teams. Budimir’s ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities will be a key indicator of Osasuna’s progress in the league. Fans and analysts alike are likely to focus on his performance in this game as a barometer for his overall contribution to the team’s success.#la_liga #betmgm_sportsbook #osasuna #ante_budimir #girona_fc

Osasuna vs Girona: La Liga Clash Set for Saturday Girona aim to secure consecutive victories in La Liga as they face Osasuna in a crucial match on Saturday. The visitors currently sit 12th in the standings, eight points above the relegation zone, while Osasuna are 11th, tied on 34 points with their opponents. Both teams are positioned outside the top six, with Girona seven points behind the leaders and Osasuna similarly distant. Osasuna’s campaign has seen them accumulate 34 points from 28 league matches, with a record of nine wins, seven draws, and 12 losses. Their recent form has been mixed, as they suffered a 3-1 defeat to Real Sociedad and have earned just one point from their last three games. However, their home record remains strong, with 25 points collected from 13 matches, including only two defeats. Girona, meanwhile, have maintained consistency on the road, earning 15 points from 14 away games. They enter the match off the back of a 3-0 home win over Athletic Bilbao and have only lost once in their last six La Liga fixtures. Both teams share the same 34-point total, with Girona eight points clear of the relegation zone and both clubs eyeing a top-half finish. Historically, Girona hold a slight edge in head-to-head meetings, with 11 wins to Osasuna’s 10, and they claimed a 1-0 victory in their most recent encounter earlier this season. However, Osasuna’s home advantage and recent performance suggest they could challenge for a positive result. Injuries and squad availability will play a role in the match. Osasuna are missing long-term absentee Iker Benito but have Ruben Garcia and Raul Garcia back from suspensions, with the former expected to start. Ante Budimir, who has scored 13 league goals this season, is also set to feature.#la_liga #girona #osasuna #real_sociedad #athletic_bilbao

Real Sociedad vs. Osasuna Prediction, Odds, and La Liga Picks Real Sociedad will face Osasuna in a La Liga match at Reale Arena on Sunday, set for 4:00 PM ET. Based on updated simulations, Dimers’ advanced model predicts Real Sociedad as the most probable winner of the encounter. This analysis includes detailed betting insights, probability breakdowns, and strategic recommendations for the game. The predictive model, which ran 10,000 simulations, estimates a 48.9% chance of Real Sociedad securing victory, compared to 25.6% for Osasuna and 25.5% for a draw. The over/under total of 2.5 goals is projected to stay under with a 53% likelihood, according to the model’s statistical analysis. For betting options, the article highlights the best available odds in America, noting that all figures are current at the time of publication and may change. After aligning the model’s probabilities with sportsbook odds, the top recommendation is to bet on Osasuna to win. This choice is based on the discrepancy between the model’s predictions and the implied probabilities from bookmakers. The most likely final scores, according to the model, include a 1-1 draw as the top prediction. For the both teams to score (BTTS) market, the model forecasts a 50.7% chance of both sides finding the net, with a 49.3% probability that at least one team will not score. These projections are derived from each team’s average scoring performance, which may differ from the predicted winner. The match is scheduled to start at 4:00 PM ET in the U.S., with Real Sociedad’s 48.9% win probability remaining the highest among the three outcomes. The analysis emphasizes the use of machine learning and statistical methods to provide accurate insights, while also acknowledging the role of human oversight in maintaining editorial quality.#la_liga #osasuna #real_sociedad #dimers #reale_arena

Real Sociedad and Osasuna Set for La Liga Clash at Reale Arena Real Sociedad and Osasuna will face off at Reale Arena this Sunday in a La Liga match set for a 20:00 kickoff on Premier Sports. The encounter promises to be a key fixture in the 2025/26 season, with both teams vying for improved positions in the league table. Real Sociedad, currently sitting in 8th place with 35 points, will look to build on their recent form, while Osasuna, in 11th with 34 points, aims to strengthen their campaign. The hosts, Real Sociedad, suffered a 3-2 defeat to Atlético de Madrid in their last match, marking a setback in their pursuit of consistency. Osasuna, on the other hand, ended their previous game in a 2-2 draw against Mallorca, showcasing resilience despite limited rewards. The two teams have a storied history, with their most recent meeting ending in a 2-2 stalemate, highlighting the competitive nature of their encounters. For Real Sociedad, the lineup includes Álex Remiro in goal, supported by a defensive line featuring Jon Aramburu, Duje Caleta-Car, and Jon Martín. Midfielders Sergio Gómez, Yangel Herrera, and Carlos Soler will anchor the play, while forwards Luka Sucic, Ánder Barrenetxea, and Orri Óskarsson spearhead the attack. However, the team faces a challenge with Álvaro Odriozola sidelined due to a cruciate ligament tear, a significant loss given his contributions. Osasuna’s squad includes Sergio Herrera in goal, with Valentin Rosier, Alejandro Catena, and Jorge Herrando forming the defensive line. Midfielders Javi Galán, Lucas Torró, and Jon Moncayola will drive the play, while forwards Aimar Oroz, Víctor Muñoz, and Ante Budimir will look to capitalize on opportunities. Notably, the team’s lineup has seen a slight adjustment, with Rubén García replacing another player in the latest fixture.#la_liga #osasuna #real_sociedad #reale_arena #premier_sports

Real Sociedad vs Osasuna: Prediction, Team News, and Lineups Real Sociedad and Osasuna will both be looking to return to winning ways when they continue their respective La Liga campaigns with a contest on Sunday night. The hosts are eighth in the La Liga table, five points off sixth-placed Celta Vigo, while Osasuna occupy 11th, only one point behind their opponents at Reale Arena. Real Sociedad have a record of nine wins, eight draws, and 10 defeats from their 27 league matches this season, with 35 points leaving them in eighth spot in the division. The Basque outfit are only five points off sixth-placed Celta and therefore very much in the race for Europe heading towards the final straight, but consistency has been a problem this season. Pellegrino Matarazzo's side will enter this match off the back of a 3-2 loss to Atletico Madrid, but they have picked up four points from their last three league games and have also managed to secure their spot in the Copa del Rey final. Real Sociedad have a record of six wins, three draws, and four defeats from their 13 home league matches this season, and they will be welcoming an Osasuna outfit that have only managed to post two wins from their 14 La Liga fixtures on their travels. La Real have won their last three matches against Osasuna, including a 3-1 victory when the two teams locked horns in the reverse game earlier this season. Osasuna lost on penalties to Real Sociedad in the last-16 stage of the Copa del Rey in January, but they have managed to win three of their last six games against Sunday's opponents, including a 2-0 success at Reale Arena in October 2024. Alessio Lisci's side will enter this match off the back of a 2-2 draw with Mallorca, while they were beaten by Valencia in their last away fixture at the start of the month.#la_liga #copa_del_rey #osasuna #real_sociedad #reale_arena

Lisci: "Este partido puede marcar un antes y un después en la temporada" El entrenador de Osasuna, Alessio Lisci, destacó la relevancia del partido contra el Mallorca, especialmente tras la derrota en Mestalla. "Estamos con muchas ganas. El partido, más que importante, es importantísimo. La palabra puede que sea trascendental, y me gustaría que ese fuera el titular porque, en caso de ganar mañana, estaríamos virtualmente salvados. Serían doce puntos por encima del descenso y el golaverage a principios de marzo", explicó. Además, subrayó que "no debe darse por hecho, es muy importante. Este partido puede marcar un antes y un después en la temporada. Quiero pedirle a la afición que haya el mismo ambiente que frente al Real Madrid, que sé que no es fácil, pero tenemos que estar todos con la misma mentalidad de sacarlo como sea y estar enchufados". A pesar de la importancia del duelo, Lisci rechazó llamarlo "final", ya que "las finales o las pierdes o las ganas y existe la opción del empate", aunque consideró que "es lo que más se acerca a una final". El técnico también mencionó la vuelta de Aimar Oroz, indicando que "no fuimos capaces de solventar su baja, como pasó ante el Villarreal. Esperamos que esté siempre y es importante recuperarlo, él es importantísimo". Además, añadió que "es uno más y, ya solo por matemática, tenemos más banquillo a nuestra disposición". Lisci no quiso enfatizar la estadística de seis partidos seguidos sin perder en casa, ya que "las estadísticas positivas, tarde o temprano, se rompen". Sin embargo, reconoció que "nosotros tenemos que dar nuestra mejor versión porque los rivales vienen con otra mentalidad a El Sadar, saben que es un partido difícil".#real_madrid #osasuna #mallorca #martin_demichelis #alessio_lisci

Osasuna-Mallorca Match: Live Updates, Viewing Details, and Key Statistics for La Liga 2025-2026 The La Liga match between Osasuna and Mallorca, scheduled for Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Estadio El Sadar, will be broadcast live on Movistar+ and tracked minute by minute on Eurosport.es. The game marks the 27th round of the season and is set for a 2:00 PM kickoff. Fans can expect a closely contested encounter with both teams bringing their unique strengths and historical matchups to the field. Key statistics and historical data highlight the significance of this fixture. Mallorca’s new manager, Martin Demichelis, faces a critical challenge after his debut as head coach ended in a defeat. This loss could mark the first time in his coaching career that he links two consecutive La Liga losses, a rare occurrence since Gregorio Manzano’s three early setbacks in 2002. Meanwhile, Mallorca’s forward Vedat Muriqi has shown a marked improvement in recent encounters with Osasuna, scoring three goals in their last two meetings after failing to find the net in their first four matches against the Navarros. Osasuna, on the other hand, has a strong record against Mallorca, having only lost two of their 26 home games against the Catalan side. The team’s local form is exceptional, with a 43.4% draw rate in La Liga matches against Mallorca, the second-highest percentage against a single opponent. Rubén García, Osasuna’s forward, has been a key threat, scoring three goals in 10 La Liga matches against Mallorca, a record high for a single rival. The match also carries implications for both teams’ broader campaigns. Osasuna has struggled to score in the first 15 minutes of second-half play this season, with no goals recorded in the opening quarter of the second half.#osasuna #mallorca #martin_demichelis #vedat_muriqi #estadio_el_sadar

Aimar Returns to Starting XI as Demichelis Debuts as Substitute Coach Osasuna will face Mallorca in a match marked by the return of Aimar Oroz to the starting lineup, following his completion of a suspension period. The game also sees the debut of Martín Demichelis as the substitute coach for the Balearic team, marking a significant moment for both clubs. Alessio Lisci has opted for his usual starting XI, maintaining continuity for Jorge Herrando, who secured the starting position over Boyomo, who begins the match from the bench. Moro also starts from the bench, reflecting Lisci's tactical choices. For Mallorca, Martín Demichelis makes his debut as the substitute coach, with Torre and Mateo Joseph named as starters. This decision sees Sergi Darder and Virgili moved to the bench. Osasuna's lineup includes Herrera in goal, supported by Rosier, Catena, Herrando, and Galán in defense. Midfielders Moncayola, Torró, and Aimar form the core, with Rubén García, Budimir, and Víctor Muñoz completing the attack. Mallorca's starting XI features Leo Román in goal, with Maffeo, Valjent, Raíllo, and Mojica forming the defensive line. Midfielders Morlanes, Mascarell, and Samu Costa provide support, while Torre, Muriqi, and Joseph lead the attack. The match promises to be a tactical battle, with both teams relying on their key players to secure a crucial result in the league standings.#osasuna #mallorca #aimar_oroz #martin_demichelis #jorge_herrando

Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe not expecting surgery on left knee injury Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe is undergoing further evaluations in Paris for his left knee injury, with his team confirming no immediate surgical intervention is planned. The 27-year-old has been dealing with knee pain since December, leading to his absence from several matches, including a La Liga victory over Real Sociedad on February 14 and the Supercopa de Espana semi-final against Atletico Madrid in January. His most recent appearance came in a 2-1 defeat to Osasuna on February 21, and he is set to miss the club’s fixture against Getafe on Monday, as additional tests are conducted to monitor the progress of his injury. Mbappe’s representatives have stated that “surgery is not being considered” at this stage, aligning with Madrid’s official confirmation that “the suitability of conservative treatment being followed has been confirmed” for his sprained left knee. The club emphasized that the treatment plan remains “pending evolution,” with sources indicating that surgical options are not currently under discussion. Head coach Alvaro Arbeloa acknowledged on Sunday that Mbappe remains a doubt for the Champions League round-of-16 first leg against Manchester City on March 11. “[We want Mbappe to] totally recover from the discomfort so he can come back at 100 per cent, with complete confidence and security,” Arbeloa said. “When he feels totally recovered and that discomfort has disappeared, we’ll see [if he can play against Man City]. Day by day. Right now, it’s better not to give a timeline. We’ll see how he feels, and based on that, we’ll decide. We want him to return at 100 per cent, and when that happens, he’ll be back.#real_madrid #alvaro_arbeloa #kylian_mbappe #osasuna #supercopa_de_espana