Ronald Araújo was one of the main targets after Barça's elimination in the Champions League. His performance against Inter left many doubts, and the club believes he didn't take the step forward that was desired from him in a match of that magnitude.
Flick, who had bet on him as a defensive leader, ended up disappointed. On a night that required decisiveness, concentration, and authority, Araújo failed. At Camp Nou, they are already starting to speak in the past tense.
A Declining Figure Within the New Barça
For years, he was untouchable. His dedication, aggressiveness, and leadership made him a reference. But in big matches, his performance hasn't lived up to expectations.
San Siro has been the turning point. It's not the first time he's been accused of key errors on important nights. Now that the club seeks to make a competitive leap, everything points to Araújo's cycle at Barça has come to an end.
The German Coach Has Demanded Immediate Solutions in the Defense. Gerard Martín is not yet ready for high-demand matches, and Christensen or Cubarsí can't bear the entire weight of the defense alone.
Moreover, the squad is saturated in that position, Koundé, Iñigo Martínez, Eric García, and Araújo himself are part of an extensive roster. The club needs to free up space and resources. Araújo, due to market value and current situation, is the first candidate to leave.
A Clause That Puts Him on the Market
Despite his recent renewal, Ronald Araújo has a release clause set at 65 million euros. That figure can be executed between July 1 and 15, and there is already a club willing to pay it without hesitation.
It is a legal provision that allows the player to leave without the need to negotiate. A resource that, according to internal sources, Araújo's entourage is already seriously considering using this summer.
Deco and Laporta Value the Uruguayan's Trajectory. But they also recognize that, with Cubarsí's projection and Balde's return, the defense can be rebuilt without him. Bringing in 65 million would relieve the wage bill and open up room for new signings.
Additionally, internal reports indicate that Araújo hasn't evolved in the tactical aspects that most concern Flick. In matches with European pace, his positioning errors and excessive zeal have cost too many expensive goals.
Confirmed Destination
The Club That Has Made a Move Is Bayern Munich. The German team has been working on the operation for weeks. After a very weak season in defense, they believe Araújo can be the new leader of their central line.
From Germany, the interest is total. They have already communicated their willingness to pay the clause and close the deal quickly. At Barça, although it hurts, they know it's a necessary departure.
Ronald Araújo will leave this summer, and his destination is already written: he will play at Bayern. Barça, meanwhile, takes a step toward a new era in defense. A difficult decision, but inevitable.