Osasuna II vs Mirandes - Friendlies Clubs

Few would have predicted the narrative arc that brings Osasuna II and Mirandes together at the home ground on August 8, 2026, and the underdog storyline only adds to the Friendlies Clubs occasion. The spectacle was once again on show ahead of Nice’s Europa League clash with AS Roma on Thursday, but what was supposed to be a display of power and pride quickly turned into a far more comical scene.

The two sides arrive with plenty to prove, and the Friendlies Clubs contest at the home ground offers a chance to lay down a marker. The hosts will hope that the the home ground crowd can inspire a performance, whatever the numbers suggest. Mirandes will travel with intent, knowing that a positive result here could kick-start their campaign. In his latest column, Paul Merson predicts the 2026/27 Premier League season at both ends of the table.

Stylistically, this is a compelling matchup. Osasuna II favour a patient, possession-based approach, whereas Mirandes are at their most dangerous when allowed to hit quickly on the counter. Everton are aware of interest from Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal, but there has been no formal approach or contact with them, and they have no appetite to sell the 26-year-old, who has three years on his deal.

Game-changers are scattered across both line-ups, and the contest may well be decided by which side's match-winners deliver on the day. The wide areas will be a key battleground, with full-backs and wingers on either side capable of swinging the contest one way or the other. Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol speaks to the Manchester Evening News after turning down options elsewhere to commit his future to City.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. Neither side holds a clear edge, and a 1-1 draw would be a fitting reflection of the balance between them. The result at the home ground could resonate well beyond matchday in the Friendlies Clubs picture. A more central role appears likely given the sale of Youri Tielemans to Manchester United and the anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered by Amadou Onana at the World Cup.