Hansi Flick has publicly backed Ronald Araujo after the defender’s errors played a role in Barcelona’s Champions League semifinal exit.
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Flick defends Araujo after Inter Milan error The Barca manager said Araujo was not the only player who made a mistakeBarcelona fans remain divided over Araujo’s future Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱Getty Images SportWHAT HAPPENED?
Hansi Flick defended the Uruguayan centre-back, following Araujo's costly error in the semifinal against Inter Milan. Substituted on with Barcelona leading against the Nerrazzuri, Araujo was involved in the two late goals that sealed Inter’s historic comeback. This led to a wave of criticism and calls from some fans for his sale. Flick, however, emphasised that Araujo was not solely responsible for their exit against Inter Milan last Wednesday and displayed public solidarity towards Araujo.
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The spotlight on Ronald Araujo’s recent mistakes has brought Barcelona’s defensive vulnerabilities into sharp focus, with the club’s back line under more scrutiny than ever. Once considered impenetrable with the high-line but even co-captain, Araujo has struggled to adapt to Hansi Flick’s high defensive line and ball-playing demands, leading to costly errors in back-to-back Champions League eliminations against PSG last season and Inter Milan this season.
His difficulties with offside traps, distribution, and positional awareness have been repeatedly exposed, especially as younger defenders like Pau Cubarsí and returning veterans such as Inigo Martinez outperform him in key areas. This run of high-profile mistakes has not only disrupted Araujo’s standing within the squad but also intensified debate about whether he fits into Barcelona’s evolving tactical identity under Flick.
Getty Images SportWHAT HANSI FLICK SAID
Ahead of Barca's game against Espanyol, Hansi Flick defended Araujo, stating, "I have spoken to Ronald Araujo. We all made mistakes in Milan… That’s life, and in general, we all fail at some point, no matter the profession. We've all been through such situations, and it's important to know how to handle them. That’s why I want to protect Araujo. He is not the only one who made a mistake."
Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR BARCELONA AND ARAUJO?
After defeating bitter rivals Real Madrid 4-3 in the recent El Clasico, Barcelona are all but set to win the La Liga and complete the domestic treble with the Copa del Rey and Supercopa de España already in the cabinet. Barcelona have to score two points out of the remaining two league games. Meanwhile, speculation continues about Araujo’s future, with Barcelona reportedly considering lowering their asking price should they decide to sell the Uruguayan international this summer.
