Ante Budimir returned to Osasuna training on Thursday following his international duty with Croatia, a key boost for the attack ahead of the demanding LaLiga EA Sports trip to face Real Betis. The striker, who is the team's top scorer this season with five goals in seven appearances, is in good physical condition and will be a fundamental piece for manager Luis Miguel Ramis's plan.
The match will be played on Sunday at 18:30 at the La Cartuja stadium in Seville. Osasuna, sitting 13th in the table with eight points, face a Betis side that is third. The last meeting between the two, in April, ended in a 1-1 draw.
Defensive reinforcement
Having conceded twelve goals in their last four matches, Ramis is seriously considering a five-man defence for the game in Seville. The aim is to protect the central spaces and enable quick transitions, a system where Budimir's ability to hold up the ball and create becomes even more vital. In this setup, the recently renewed Iñigo Arguibide would operate as the right wing-back.
The central defence would feature David García Catena as a fixed starter, alongside Unai Santos, who has impressed the coaching staff in recent weeks. The third centre-back spot would go to either Rockson Yeboah or Enzo Boyomo. On the left, Bretones is an option for the wing-back role. Full-back Jerome Rosier is travelling with the squad but may lack the competitive rhythm to start.
Injury recoveries continue
Meanwhile, Jon Moncayola, Pablo Herrando and Asier Bonel continue their recovery from respective muscle injuries. The team will complete their preparation with an open training session on Friday at 10:30 at Tajonar and a final closed session on Saturday before travelling to Seville. The next challenge is to stop the poor away form and take points from a direct rival, with Budimir as the main offensive hope. The team is looking to improve its current average of 0.8 points per game this season.
First reported at Mundo Deportivo
