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Barcelona star Ronald Araújo has a clear idea in mind when it comes to his return to competitive duties with Hansi Flick’s squad.
This comes amid confirmation that Barca have pencilled in a date for the Uruguayan’s comeback.
Stopper Araújo has of course seen his name dominate the headlines in Catalunya’s capital for several weeks now.
As much comes after the 26-year-old was forced to step away from his teammates at the Ciutat Esportiva.
After Araújo was targeted in ruthless fashion for his costly red card en route to a Champions League defeat at the hands of Chelsea, the defender was so heavily affected that he required [time away to recover mentally](https://www.goal.com/en/lists/ronald-araujo-granted-indefinite-leave-barcelona-agents-hold-talks-sporting-director/blt4f2c87af8cb9bd6a).
And the time taken, it would appear, has had the desired effect for Araújo.
As per a report from journalist Luis F Rojo:
‘Araújo intends to play for Barca in the derby against Espanyol on January 3rd.’
> La intención de Araujo es volver a jugar con el Barça el derbi frente al Espanyol el 3 de enero.
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> — luis rojo (@Luis\_F\_Rojo) [December 17, 2025](https://twitter.com/Luis_F_Rojo/status/2001292875737251889?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)
Conor Laird – GSFN