Barcelona heavyweight’s future becoming increasingly uncertain despite recent renewal | OneFootball

It was only a little over a month ago when Ronald Araujo’s future at FC Barcelona had become a topic of much speculation.

The defender, having returned from a lengthy injury absence, had found himself behind Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez in the pecking order and appeared set to leave in January with Juventus pushing hard for his signing.

However, Barcelona sporting director Deco managed to convince the Uruguayan international to not only stay but also sign a new contract until 2031.

But the new deal came with a caveat that Araujo’s release clause would be lowered from the previous value of €1 billion. As it stands, the 25-year-old’s termination clause drops to €65 million for the first ten days of the summer window, leaving the door open for an exit.

Araujo’s future becoming uncertain

Now, Javi Miguel of AS reports that Araujo’s future at FC Barcelona is starting to become increasingly uncertain as he seems to be fading away from a regular spot in Hansi Flick’s starting XI.

Araujo staring at a difficult situation. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The Uruguayan centre-back is now considered the fourth choice in Flick’s defensive hierarchy, behind Martinez, Cubarsi, and Eric Garcia, who has grown in stature since deciding against a January exit.

Araujo has not played a single minute in Barcelona’s last three matches, watching from the bench against Rayo Vallecano, Las Palmas, and Atletico Madrid (4-4). His last appearance came on February 9 against Sevilla – where he played only 22 minutes.

Flick appears to prefer centre-backs who are more tactical than physical, prioritising ball distribution, positioning, and anticipation over raw defensive power. And the manager is not keen to rotate much in the final stages of the season, making it difficult for Araujo.

The Barcelona captain’s situation is set to become even more complicated as Andreas Christensen is back from injury, while Barcelona are also eyeing Jonathan Tah from Bayer Leverkusen as a summer signing.

All of this could further push Araujo out of the club’s plans, making a transfer increasingly likely.