Carles Minarro Garcia’s passing is an immense loss for Barcelona and the football world. His dedication, professionalism, and kindness touched the lives of countless players and staff members
His legacy will continue to live on at FC Barcelona, and his contributions to the club will never be forgotten.
As the football community mourns this heartbreaking loss, one thing remains certain—Carles Minarro Garcia’s impact will forever be cherished.
As Barcelona moves forward, Carles Minarro Garcia’s legacy will remain. His dedication to the club and its players was evident, and his absence will be deeply felt.
The tributes from players highlight the strong personal connections he built and the lasting impact he had on their careers.
Rest in peace, Carles Minarro Garcia. Your contributions to Barcelona will never be forgotten.
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Table of Contents
Carles Minarro Garcia’s Journey at Barcelona
From Futsal to First-Team Doctor
Carles Minarro Garcia began his journey with FC Barcelona in 2017 as part of the futsal team’s medical staff.1
His expertise and dedication soon earned him a reputation as a committed professional within the club’s medical department.
Over the years, Minarro worked closely with various teams at the club, demonstrating his deep knowledge of sports medicine and athlete care.
His dedication and skill led to his appointment as the first-team doctor for the football team ahead of the 2024-25 season, replacing Dr. Xavier Valle.
Ahir vam gaudir d’una victòria que és el mirall del treball, el talent i el compromís d’uns jugadors, d’un entrenador, d’un cos tècnic. Visca el Barça! pic.twitter.com/MzCAWDERdb
— Joan Laporta Estruch🎗 (@JoanLaportaFCB) January 13, 2025
A Pillar of Support for Players and Staff
Minarro was widely respected for his professionalism and personal touch in handling players’ medical needs. He was responsible for ensuring the squad’s physical well-being, traveling with the team for both domestic and international fixtures.
His caring nature extended beyond just medical care—players and staff saw him as a mentor, friend, and unwavering supporter.
The football world was left in shock as FC Barcelona’s first-team doctor, Carles Minarro Garcia, tragically passed away.
His sudden demise, which occurred at the team hotel before the club’s LaLiga fixture against Osasuna, deeply affected the entire squad and led to the match’s postponement.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta issued a heartfelt statement, describing Minarro as a “very beloved person” and a “great professional.” The devastating news left the club, its players, and staff in mourning.
This article explores the impact of Minarro’s passing, his contributions to FC Barcelona, and the emotional response from the football community.
Joan Laporta’s Heartfelt Tribute
Barcelona president Joan Laporta expressed his deep sorrow following Minarro’s passing.2
Speaking on behalf of the club, he shared an emotional message on Barcelona’s official website:
“A man very much loved by everyone passed away this afternoon during the team’s gathering at the hotel. As you can imagine, the players, the coaching staff, the coach—everyone was very sad. There was an overwhelming sense of sadness because he was a very beloved person. We all loved him.”
Laporta also highlighted Minarro’s selfless dedication to his work:
“He was a man who traveled to every match to take care of all the players, the coaching staff, anyone. He never said no to anyone. A great professional, a great doctor. It is very sad what happened. This is very painful news. It has left us devastated, in a state of shock, because it was so sudden.”
Emotional Toll on Players and Staff
The news of Minarro’s sudden passing sent shockwaves through the Barcelona squad. Players who had built strong relationships with him were deeply affected, struggling to process the tragic loss.
Several squad members reportedly broke down in tears upon hearing the news. The coaching staff, including manager Xavi Hernandez, were left in disbelief as they tried to console the team.
Postponement of the Barcelona vs. Osasuna Fixture
The Barcelona vs. Osasuna match, scheduled for March 8, was postponed following the heartbreaking news. The club made an immediate request to LaLiga to delay the fixture, which was granted out of respect for the team’s grief.
The Spanish football federation and LaLiga authorities stood in solidarity with Barcelona, acknowledging that playing under such circumstances would have been impossible.
Minarro’s passing resonated throughout the footballing community, with clubs, players, and organizations expressing their condolences.
LaLiga’s Statement
LaLiga released an official statement, expressing its deepest sympathies to Minarro’s family and the entire Barcelona organization. They praised his contributions to the sport and recognized his role in ensuring player welfare.
Several current and former Barcelona players took to social media to mourn Minarro’s passing.
Captain Sergi Roberto, goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, and young star Lamine Yamal shared emotional messages, recalling Minarro’s kindness and support.
Former Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola also expressed his condolences, stating that Minarro’s impact on the club would never be forgotten.
Rival Spanish clubs, including Real Madrid, Atlético Madrid, and Sevilla, sent messages of support to Barcelona during this difficult time. Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez extended his condolences to Laporta and the Barcelona family, emphasizing that moments like these transcend rivalries.
Carles Minarro Garcia’s Legacy at Barcelona
A Professional Who Put Players First
Minarro’s legacy is one of unwavering commitment to player health and safety.3
He played a crucial role in:
- Injury prevention and rehabilitation – ensuring that players recovered fully before returning to action.
- Matchday medical support – traveling with the squad to provide immediate medical assistance.
- Mental health awareness – being a supportive figure for players dealing with pressure and stress.
His presence on the bench, always ready to assist injured players, became a comforting sight for the squad.
A Lasting Memory in Barcelona’s History
Minarro’s dedication to Barcelona will forever be remembered. He was more than just a doctor—he was a guardian of the players’ well-being, a mentor, and a true club servant.
To honor his contributions, Barcelona is expected to hold a memorial ceremony, ensuring that his name is forever etched in the club’s history.
Finding Strength in Loss
While Minarro’s passing leaves a massive void, the club is committed to honoring his memory by continuing his work.
Barcelona’s medical team will work tirelessly to uphold his high standards, ensuring that player health remains a top priority.
Barcelona now faces the challenge of returning to the pitch while still grieving. Players will have access to psychological support and counseling to help them navigate this emotional period.
Despite the sorrow, the club will aim to rally together, using Minarro’s dedication as motivation to push forward.
Also Read: Joan Laporta: Bio, Wiki, Age, Career, Net Worth 2024, Barcelona Tenure and More
Barcelona Mourn Club Doctor Carles Minarro Garcia’s Tragic Death
The football world was shaken by the tragic passing of Barcelona club doctor Carles Minarro Garcia, who died before the club’s LaLiga match against Osasuna.
Players, staff, and fans alike expressed their grief and paid tribute to a man who played a crucial role behind the scenes for the Catalan giants.
Carles Minarro Garcia was a key figure in Barcelona’s medical team, ensuring players’ fitness and recovery while fostering strong relationships with them.
His sudden passing left the squad in deep sorrow, with several players sharing their condolences and memories of the doctor.
Marc-André ter Stegen: “I Am at a Loss for Words”
Barcelona’s star goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen expressed his devastation through a heartfelt Instagram post. He wrote:
“I am at a loss for words. I send all my strength and support to your family and friends. Rest in peace. We will miss you very much and we will always carry you in our hearts, Carles.”
Ter Stegen’s words reflected the deep emotional impact of the doctor’s passing, as he had worked closely with him over the years.
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Dani Olmo’s Emotional Tribute
Dani Olmo, who rejoined Barcelona last season, also took to social media to share his sadness. On X (formerly Twitter), he wrote:
“It’s hard to believe and accept everything that has happened. Carles, thank you very much for everything you have helped me with, not only this year, but throughout my entire career. You will be greatly missed, and you will always be remembered in our hearts, and in the hearts of my family. RIP Doc.”
Having been with the club for only a season, Olmo’s heartfelt words indicate the strong bond that Minarro Garcia had with his players.
Ronald Araújo Sends Strength to the Doctor’s Family
Uruguayan defender Ronald Araújo, known for his resilience and leadership, shared his emotions on X:
“Unbelievable. Rest in peace Doc. Much strength to the family and friends. May God strengthen their hearts in this difficult time.”
Araújo’s message resonated with many fans who admired the doctor’s dedication to the club and its players.
Pedri’s Disbelief at the Tragic News
Midfield maestro Pedri, who has suffered multiple injuries throughout his young career and worked closely with the club’s medical team, also mourned Minarro Garcia’s passing. On Instagram, he wrote:
“I still can’t believe it. A big hug to Carles’ family and friends.”
His short but emotional tribute highlighted the sudden and heartbreaking nature of the tragedy.
Barcelona’s Upcoming Challenges Amid Grief
Despite their heartbreak, Barcelona must regroup quickly, as they are set to play in a crucial UEFA Champions League Round-of-16 second-leg match against Benfica on Tuesday.
With their LaLiga title hopes also at stake, the team faces a tough period emotionally and competitively.
As it stands, Barcelona leads the LaLiga table with 57 points from 26 games, just a point ahead of Atletico Madrid and three points ahead of arch-rivals Real Madrid. With the league in its final stretch, every match will be crucial for their title hopes.
Carles Minarro Garcia was not just a club doctor; he was a beloved figure within the team. His contributions extended beyond treating injuries—he was a mentor, a confidant, and a guiding presence for many players.
His passing leaves a void in Barcelona’s medical department and in the hearts of the players.
How Players Cope with Tragedy
Barcelona’s loss is deeply felt beyond the club, as fans, former players, and football professionals worldwide have shared their condolences.
The football community stands in solidarity, recognizing Minarro Garcia’s impact on the sport and his dedication to his profession.
Losing a key member of the backroom staff is never easy for players. Footballers form strong relationships with medical professionals, who play a significant role in their careers.
These bonds often go beyond the professional level, making such losses deeply personal.
With the LaLiga race heating up and the Champions League still within their reach, Barcelona players may find motivation in honoring Minarro Garcia’s memory. It wouldn’t be surprising to see them dedicate their season to him, striving for success in his honor.
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