It has been over a month since Ronald Araujo last played for FC Barcelona. Following the defeat to Chelsea in the UEFA Champions League in November, where he was sent off in the first half, the Uruguayan opted to take a mental health break.
Having been away from the squad for a month, the second captain resumed training with the rest of the group on 29 December, right after the mid-season break.
But Araujo was not ready to return to action for Barcelona’s first game of the new year against RCD Espanyol.
And, according to SPORT, it is extremely unlikely that the defender will be ready to face Athletic Club in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final tomorrow.
Barcelona taking things step by step
At the beginning of last week, when Araujo resumed training, Barcelona and Araujo agreed to take things step by step without rushing into anything.
After all, unlike other injuries, where a more or less clear return date can be estimated, this is a unique case. Here, everything must be assessed day by day, with no pressure at all, allowing the player to decide when he feels ready.
Ronald Araujo of FC Barcelona
Taking things step by step. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
After his continued training, the next step for Araujo was to be included in the squad for the Super Cup, which has now been taken.
That said, Araújo’s inclusion in the travelling party does not mean that he will already be available to Flick for the semi-final against Athletic Club.
In fact, in principle, and subject to the day-by-day monitoring, his presence on the pitch is almost ruled out for Wednesday. Whether he may sit on the bench is a different matter.
The main reason for his trip to Saudi Arabia is to continue training alongside his teammates and to remain with the group during these days, fulfilling his role as captain.
The feelings so far are good, the feedback is positive, and Araujo is on the right path. Flick fully counts on him once he feels ready, and the club is providing full support, with professionals and all available resources, to assist him throughout this process.
What happens in the event of qualification for Sunday’s final will be seen in due course.