Barcelona began La Liga with a convincing win at Son Moix against Mallorca. The result reflected Barça's superiority in a match that had few complications, beyond the anticipation caused by seeing the coach's line-up in his first game. Among the starters, there were names that not everyone expected, including Ronald Araújo.
The Uruguayan center-back keeps his ambition to establish himself under Flick's leadership intact. This is despite having been one of the players identified as possible departures if an important offer arrived in the summer transfer market. His presence in the starting eleven against Mallorca was seen as an opportunity to redeem himself and regain that key role.
Araújo, under the spotlight
Despite his good performance—a solid match without major mistakes—Araújo's situation remains delicate. Flick has given him minutes from the start at the beginning of this season, but at the same time keeps doubts about his fit in the model he wants to implement at Barça. The culé coach values ball distribution and the center-backs' ability to start plays highly, an area where he believes the Uruguayan still has room for improvement.
This perception complicates Araújo's chances of becoming an undisputed starter. Christensen, for example, offers a profile more in line with the style Flick wants to establish, and that difference could tip the balance when the most demanding matches arrive. Although Ronald Araújo has unquestionable physical strength and defensive ability, his shortcomings with the ball put him at a disadvantage compared to some teammates.
The challenge of convincing Flick
For the center-back, the season presents itself as a personal challenge. His mission will be to show that he can adapt to Flick's tactical demands and that his defensive leadership can be as useful as his ability to recover the ball. In this sense, Íñigo Martínez's departure opens a window of opportunities for him, but he will have to seize it with consistent performances and improvements in building play from the back.
Meanwhile, the club doesn't rule out future scenarios in which a transfer could be considered. This would always depend on a suitable offer being made and the player failing to secure his place in the starting eleven. Convincing Flick won't be easy, but if he succeeds, the Uruguayan could once again become one of the references in the culé locker room.