Report – Reason behind Flick’s change of plans with Barcelona captain for Osasuna clash | OneFootball

As FC Barcelona get set to take on CA Osasuna in a few hours at Montjuic, manager Hansi Flick announced the squad list for the game.

Inigo Martinez and Pau Cubarsi were included in the list, having recovered from their respective fitness problems.

Along with them, there was another surprise inclusion in the form of Ronald Araujo.

The Barça head coach had confirmed during his press conference on Wednesday that the Uruguayan international, along with Raphinha, will not be called up owing to their late return after a long trip back from South America.

Why the change of plans?

However, Flick had a change of plans with Araujo even as Raphinha has been left out of the squad to face Osasuna.

Explaining the decision, Fabrizio Romano reports that Araujo himself pushed for his inclusion in the squad for tonight’s match at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys.

Araujo in but no Raphinha. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Indeed, the Uruguayan international is believed to have spoken to Flick in the morning to relay his intention to be a part of the squad for the Osasuna game.

Despite the long flight and the manager’s plans to rest him, Araujo insisted on making himself available as he felt good.

After all, it must be noted that the defender did not play any minutes in Uruguay’s second friendly against Bolivia earlier this week before returning to Barcelona.

Given the player’s insistence, Flick ended up naming him in the squad, although it seems unlikely that Araujo will play any part in the game as things stand.

Nevertheless, it goes on to show the Barça captain’s commitment and dedication towards the team and his readiness to help out at all times.