This is one of the major topics of discussion at FC Barcelona as 2025 draws to a close. Ronald Araújo 's request for rest , to focus on his mental health and recharge, has sparked strong reactions in Catalonia, where the 26-year-old center-back was already under fire. He is notably accused of letting the team down in big matches, with lapses in concentration and errors that have already cost the Blaugrana dearly on several occasions, such as against PSG two years ago, against Inter in the semi-finals last season, and his sending-off against Chelsea this season.
After his spiritual retreat in Israel , the player, who came up through the ranks at Boston River and La Masia, returned to training on Monday. However, this return to practice is not expected to translate into a return to the pitch this weekend against Espanyol, as the Catalan press, such as Mundo Deportivo , indicates that his return will depend on how he feels and his discussions with the coaching staff and Deco.
Araujo lost his place
In this sense, Barça doesn't want to rush things and wants to pamper its player, also trying to shield him from outside noise. A poll published yesterday by Mundo Deportivo revealed that he is the second most popular player among fans for a summer sale, just behind Frenkie de Jong, only a few votes behind the Dutchman. This proves that while the club is trying to support the defender, the fans have had enough.
Moreover, it's also a delicate situation for Hansi Flick to manage. While the Uruguayan started the season as a regular starter alongside Pau Cubarsí, things have changed somewhat during his absence. Eric Garcia has proven his worth, even though he's recently been used in midfield by the German coach. Gerard Martin has also been repositioned in central defense and is performing surprisingly well, making him difficult to dislodge. Araújo has therefore clearly fallen down the pecking order, to fourth place among center-backs, and can at least take some comfort in Christensen's knee injury, which will keep him out for several months. It goes without saying that when the opportunity to play again arises, he would be wise to seize it, as his performances will be scrutinized more closely than ever…
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