In the fast-paced world of football transfers and contract negotiations, even a long-term renewal doesn’t guarantee a player’s future at a club. This is the case with Ronald Araújo at Barcelona, who despite recently extending his contract until 2031, finds his position at the Catalan giants far from secure.
Araújo’s Weaknesses Exposed
The 25-year-old Uruguayan defender has been a key figure for Barcelona in recent seasons, known for his athleticism, competitive spirit, and aerial prowess. However, his technical limitations have been increasingly exposed, especially under the demanding tactical system implemented by manager Hansi Flick.
Araújo struggled in Barcelona’s recent 5-4 Champions League win over Benfica, repeatedly breaking the offside line, misplacing passes, and scoring an own goal. His lapses in concentration and positional errors made him look vulnerable, with opponents viewing him as a weak link to exploit.
Adapting to Flick’s High-Risk System
Flick’s high defensive line, positioned on average 50 meters from their own goal, requires impeccable execution and split-second decision-making from the back four. While Araújo’s teammates had time to learn and assimilate this demanding system, the Uruguayan was sidelined with injury, leaving him playing catch-up.
“This gentleman is Araújo. A top-level footballer, no question, but the Barça player with the most problems. Every time the ball goes towards him, we must already be closing off his passing line and then pressing him.”
– Luis Enrique, PSG Manager
Araújo’s struggles against high-pressing opponents were highlighted by PSG manager Luis Enrique last season, who instructed his team to target the defender whenever he had the ball. This led to a red card for Araújo and Barcelona’s elimination from the Champions League.
Persistent Transfer Interest
Despite Barcelona acting swiftly to renew Araújo’s contract amid strong interest from Juventus this transfer window, the defender’s future remains uncertain. This was the second consecutive year he openly flirted with a move, having been linked to Bayern Munich last summer.
With Barcelona targeting Bayer Leverkusen’s Jonathan Tah, a towering right-footed center-back whose contract expires soon, Araújo could still find himself sold for a significant fee at the end of the season if he fails to adapt to Flick’s system.
Back to the Classroom for Araújo
- Intense drilling from coaching staff on basics of Flick’s system
- Long nights studying video to grasp positioning and movement
- Accepting substitute role behind preferred Cubarsí-Martínez pairing
- Deputizing at right-back to cover for Jules Koundé
For now, Araújo must embrace the challenge of relearning how to play in Barcelona’s new system. It will be a stressful, high-stakes process that will test his concentration and adaptability. Only time will tell if he can secure his long-term future at the club.
