La Liga's round 20 kicks off with a clash of contrasting fortunes as Barcelona vs Osasuna happens tonight. While Osasuna is on the rise under Jagoba Arrasate, Barcelona is still reeling from recent setbacks. The match will be played in the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.

Xavi's Farewell Tour Begins 

Xavi Hernández's announcement that he will step down at season's end has cast a bittersweet shadow over this Barcelona vs Osasuna encounter. The Blaugrana legend will be keen to send himself off with a bang, but recent form suggests a rocky road ahead.

A humiliating 5-3 home defeat to Villarreal and a Copa del Rey quarter-final exit at the hands of Athletic Bilbao have exposed Barca's vulnerabilities. Despite boasting the likes of Robert Lewandowski and Pedri, defensive frailties and midfield inconsistencies have threatened to derail their title challenge.

While Barcelona lick their wounds, Osasuna arrive brimming with confidence. Arrasate's men have picked up seven points from their last three league games, including a gritty 1-1 draw against 10-man Sevilla last weekend.

Chimy Ávila has rediscovered his goalscoring touch, while the midfield duo of Moncayola and Brasanac provide steel and creativity. Osasuna's compact defending and quick counter-attacks could pose a serious threat to Barca's shaky backline.

What We Expect From This Barcelona vs Osasuna

Historically, Barcelona vs Osasuna has been a one-sided affair. The Catalans boast 28 wins in 44 meetings, including a six-game winning streak against Arrasate's side and an eight-game unbeaten run stretching back to July 2020.

However, Osasuna are no strangers to upsetting the established order. Their last win at the Camp Nou came in 2020, and they held current league leaders Girona to a 1-1 draw earlier this season.

Barcelona vs Osasuna promises to be a tight and tense affair. The home side's desperation to get back on track and Xavi's desire for a winning send-off will be countered by Osasuna's growing confidence and their ability to frustrate bigger teams.

While Barcelona are slight favorites given their home advantage and historical dominance, Osasuna have the tools to make them sweat. Expect a match filled with attacking intent, defensive grit, and perhaps even a touch of farewell fireworks.

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