Barcelona's elimination in the Champions League semifinals has had a much greater impact that goes beyond sports. The club, which had placed great hopes for this time, not only lost the chance to lift the title but also significantly affected the culé environment. At the center of that fracture is Ronald Araújo, a player who until recently was untouchable and now generates more uncertainty than trust.
The Uruguayan defender was an involuntary protagonist in the decisive minutes of the match against Inter Milan. He entered in the second half, when Barça had leveled the tie, but far from strengthening the defense, he was involved in two of the Italian goals. The images of his mistakes have not gone unnoticed, and there are already suspicions within the club regarding the attitude of the center-back himself.
Decision made
Araújo's latest performances in Europe have left a feeling of discomfort in Barça's management. His expulsion was decisive in last year's elimination against PSG, and now his passivity against Acerbi and Thuram has reopened the debate about his reliability in big matches. Added to this are his statements after the defeat, in which he avoided self-criticism and shifted responsibilities, words that did not sit well in the locker room and the board.
According to club sources, President Laporta and several directors are beginning to suspect that Araújo has already made the decision to leave the team this summer transfer market. They believe his focus has dropped because he sees his future away from Camp Nou. And although he has a contract until 2031, his release clause—of just 65 million euros—could facilitate a move in the market.
Flick is already looking elsewhere
The German coach, who has completed his first full season in charge of the culé first team, doesn't consider Araújo an indispensable piece. In fact, Flick is looking for defenders who feel comfortable with ball distribution and naturally adapt to a high block. In this context, names like Pau Cubarsí, Eric García, or Andreas Christensen seem to have more assured prominence.
Additionally, the club has initiated contacts with Jonathan Tah, Bayer Leverkusen's center-back, as a possible reinforcement for the defensive axis. This operation would only make sense if there is a significant departure in defense, and all signs point to Araújo. The Uruguayan, who already considered his departure in January, seems to have accepted that his cycle at Barça is nearing its end.