‘We must not forget’… Deco backs struggling 26-year-old Barcelona defender to bounce back | OneFootball

FC Barcelona’s 2024/25 campaign has been defined by progress and clarity, with Hansi Flick implementing a strong tactical identity and elevating several players to new heights.

However, one of the few players at the club who would not have fond memories from a personal point of view is club captain Ronald Araujo. The Uruguayan has massively struggled to adapt to Hansi Flick’s system and is still figuring it out.

For quite a few seasons, Araujo was touted to be a leader of Barcelona’s defensive line, but things have changed. The Uruguayan suffered an injury during the Copa America back last summer and missed the entire first half of the campaign.

Ronald Araujo will not have fond-memories of this season. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Injury setback and lost ground

In his absence, Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez forged an unbreakable partnership in central defence. The Spanish duo showcased a brilliant understanding of the high line that Flick wanted them to deploy and have done so all season.

Eric Garcia also showcased very good quality whenever called upon and so has Andreas Christensen, in the limited times he has played. However, Araujo has struggled to understand what it takes to play in this system, earning the wrath of fans all around the world.

The Uruguayan renewed his contract with Barcelona back in January with a favourable release clause that would allow him to leave this summer, and when asked about the same, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo, here is what Deco had to say:

“For me, Araujo is one of the best center-backs in the world. But it’s true that players, for various reasons, can have a down season. He joined a team that was playing at a very high level, but we must not forget the quality he possesses. From now on, players need to be fully committed to Barça to stay at the club. I believe Ronald is happy here.”

Don’t lose hope, just yet! (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Why Araujo still has a future at Barcelona?

There is something here to take back from Deco’s words. One must not forget the quality that Araujo possesses. Right now, he is having an understanding gap that Hansi Flick will surely be working on but profile wise, he is as good as they come.

While this season may not be one Ronald Araujo looks back on fondly, it’s far too early to write off his future at Barcelona. Returning from a significant injury without a full pre-season, and entering a team already in full flow, was always going to be a steep challenge.

Deco’s public support underscores the club’s belief in his long-term value, and with a full summer to reset and adapt to Flick’s demanding system, Araujo still has every chance to reclaim his role at the heart of Barça’s defence. The coming months could be crucial in defining his next chapter at the Camp Nou.