Confirmed, sold to Manchester United: betrayal, he's leaving Barça, Gavi is really KO

FC Barcelona have approved a departure that nobody expected so soon. His move to Manchester United is finalized for a figure close to €60 million. Although his performance has been inconsistent this season, he remains a high-level defender with great potential.

This move has taken much of the Barça environment by surprise, especially coach Hansi Flick. The German was counting on the Uruguayan for his new project, but the financial operation has been too tempting for the club. In addition, the player had already received signals that he wouldn't be essential under the new management.

Gavi, shocked by the departure of his close friend

One of the most heartfelt reactions has come from Gavi. The young midfielder, who keeps a close friendship with Araújo, is visibly hurt. He considers him not only a leader in defense but also an emotional support within the locker room.

Those close to him confirm that Gavi doesn't celebrate the deal at all, but deeply regrets the loss of a teammate with whom he shared values, fight, and commitment. His farewell is a blow to the group, which loses one of its silent pillars.

Gavi with Barça | @FCBarcelona

While Barça didn't see it as urgent to sell Araújo, Manchester United have come with an unbeatable offer. In addition to the multi-million transfer, they've offered him a contract with a much higher salary than he was earning at Camp Nou.

Despite being one of the most highly rated defenders in the squad, his salary wasn't among the highest. This difference has weighed on the player's final decision, as he now seeks financial stability and a central role in a new project.

Flick loses his most physical center back

For Hansi Flick, the loss of Araújo represents a significant setback. He considered him a key profile to add muscle to the defensive line. His anticipation, aerial ability, and leadership in critical situations were valuable assets in the model he wants to implement.

Now, Flick will have to reorganize his defense ahead of preseason. The market will dictate whether the board can fill that gap with a reliable signing. Otherwise, he could turn to academy names or adaptations like Christensen in that position.

Ronald Araujo during a training session | @FCBarcelona

Araújo was one of the most beloved players within the group. Always willing to support the youngest and with impeccable ethics, his departure will also have emotional consequences. His farewell symbolizes the end of an era, especially for the generation that grew up alongside him.

At Barça they admit that the decision wasn't easy. But given the club's financial circumstances, freeing up wage bill and obtaining €60 million for a player whose continuity wasn't guaranteed has outweighed the emotional component.

A decision that defines the summer

Araújo's signing for Manchester United is one of the most powerful moves of the summer transfer window. The Uruguayan will seek to regain his best form in the Premier League and establish himself as one of the best center backs on the continent.

For Barça, this sale represents financial relief, but also a significant sporting loss. It remains to be seen whether the money will be reinvested well or if Flick manages to replace him with internal resources.

The player in question is Ronald Araújo, who leaves FC Barcelona for Manchester United for €60 million. Although his salary at Barça was modest, the "Red Devils" have offered him a much higher contract, which has ultimately sealed his departure. Gavi, deeply affected, thus loses one of his best friends within the Barça locker room.