Article by Cosmin Nistor – Published on Monday, 01 December 2025, 19:31 / Updated on Monday, 01 December 2025 19:31
Ronald Araujo (26), one of Barcelona's captains, has asked the club for an indefinite break to recover his mental and physical balance.
The Uruguayan defender is going through a delicate period after the red card received in the lost match with Chelsea (0-3), which brought him harsh criticism from fans and commentators.
Removal, criticism and absence from training
Araujo was taken off in the 44th minute of the duel with Chelsea and Barcelona subsequently lost on goal, making the defender the main culprit in the eyes of many.
Shortly after the nightmare game, the player did not return to the training base, with the club initially citing a stomach virus.
In reality, according to Mundo Deportivo, Araujo felt that he was no longer in optimal conditions to remain competitive and asked for a period of rest in order not to affect the team's performance.
Barcelona gives him full support
The defender and his agents communicated directly to the management about his desire to take a break, and the club immediately responded with a gesture of solidarity: Araujo is free to miss as long as he needs, without pressure and without a set date for his return.
Barcelona consider the 26-year-old's mental health to be a priority and have said they support him unconditionally in the process.
Laporta, public message of support: “He was unfairly criticized!”
Joan Laporta, the president of the Catalans, intervened on Friday with a firm message in defense of the defender:
“I want to encourage and defend Araujo. It has been criticized a lot and I don't think it's fair. He gives everything on the field, he is our captain and he has to overcome this moment.
He went through a difficult time and I want to tell him that we are with him. This is where we win and lose together.”
Laporta's statement came as the defender faces strong emotional pressure and is described as an “emotional and sentimental[“person[”
What's next for Araujo?
This season, the centre-back has made 15 appearances and two goals, but will not be available for Tuesday's clash with Atletico Madrid, counting for stage #19 in LaLiga.
