Barcelona Receives Updates on Ronald Araujo's Injury Status
In a recent game against Sevilla, FC Barcelona's defender Ronald Araujo took a hit, sparking concerns of a potentially serious injury. Witnessing this event were numerous outlets, such as Jijantes and MARCA. Fortunately, subsequent medical tests revealed that the damage was limited to a bruise on his right ankle, resulting from a fierce tackle by former Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez.
Though Araujo had to depart the pitch earlier than expected, his absence was set to be a significant loss, not just for coach Hansi Flick but also for Araujo himself, recently securing a contract extension up until mid-2031, despite rumors of a potential transfer to Juventus. His importance to the team was further underscored last summer, when an injury during the Copa America kept him sidelined for the remainder of the 2024 season.
As Inigo Martinez was sidelined with a calf issue, Araujo had assumed center stage, becoming an integral part of the team's fearsome defensive duo noted for their mastery of the offside trap. With Inigo eventually recovering, Araujo continued to excel, maintaining his position as a starting defender.
Hansi Flick has since granted his players a well-deserved three-day break, following the team's 4-1 victory over Sevilla and drawing level with league leaders Madrid. Araujo might still miss the February 17 game against Rayo Vallecano to ensure a full recovery, allowing for extra caution.
In Araujo's absence, the coach might opt for Eric Garcia, who has been in excellent form and bagged two goals in his last outings. Alternatively, Flick could pair up-and-coming La Masia product Pau Cubarsi with Inigo, depending on his assessment of the situation.
[1] - Source: Marca (January 2025)[4] - Source: Jijantes (January 2025)
Ronald Araujo's potential transfer to Juventus was rumored despite him recently extending his contract with Barcelona until mid-2031.Vinicius Jr. and Real Madrid were among the outlets that showed interest in Araujo's injury situation after his collision with Saul Niguez during a game against Sevilla.Inigo Martinez and Sevilla were present when Araujo suffered a bruise on his right ankle during their match, with subsequent medical tests revealing the extent of the injury.Pau Cubarsi, an up-and-coming La Masia product, could potentially fill in for Araujo during his recovery, according to coach Hansi Flick's assessment of the situation.
