FC Barcelona experienced an epic night in the Champions League after defeating Benfica 4-5 in a match full of emotions and mistakes. On a rainy evening in Lisbon, the culés managed to come back from a deficit with a goal by Raphinha in the final moments of the match. Although the result ensures avoiding Liverpool in the next phase, the team's performance left many doubts.
A Match with Ups and Downs
Hansi Flick's starting eleven presented several surprises. Ronald Araújo returned to the starting line-up alongside Pau Cubarsí, while Pedri and Gavi led the midfield.
However, the lack of defensive solidity was evident from the first minute. Benfica quickly took the lead, taking advantage of the blaugrana's lack of concentration.
Barça fought to equalize the score and, on several occasions, showed their offensive capability thanks to the trio of Lamine Yamal, Lewandowski, and Raphinha. However, the defense wasn't up to par, and mistakes piled up, including an own goal by Araújo that put the team at a disadvantage again.
Deco and Laporta, Critical After the Victory
Despite the win, Deco and Joan Laporta were concerned about the team's overall performance, especially in defense. The comeback was important, but individual errors and the lack of cohesion in the backline raised alarms.
Ronald Araújo, who was returning after a long injury, was the main one pointed out. The Uruguayan, a key player in the past, failed to demonstrate his usual level and was a negative protagonist at several moments in the match.
Araújo's performance has led Deco and Laporta to reconsider his future. A few weeks ago, Juventus offered 70 million euros for the defender, a proposal that Barça rejected, trusting in his recovery. However, after what was seen in Lisbon, the management might reconsider their decision.
Although Araújo is considered a leader in the locker room and a reference in defense, his current performance raises doubts about whether he can recover his form. Juventus's offer could be an opportunity to relieve the club's finances and strengthen other areas.
A Debate in Barça's Upper Echelons
The internal debate about Araújo's continuity is open. Some in the management believe that trust in him should be maintained, arguing that his leadership is crucial for the team.
Others, however, think it's time to accept the offer and seek more reliable alternatives in the market. Hansi Flick, meanwhile, will have to decide if Araújo remains a starter in upcoming commitments or if he gives opportunities to other players.
For now, Barça's official stance is that Ronald Araújo remains part of the project. However, with Juventus still interested in the player, it's not ruled out that the operation could be reactivated in the final days of the market.
The epic victory in Lisbon has left more questions than answers at Barça. While the fans celebrate advancing to the next round, the management is working on decisions that could shape the team's future. Ronald Araújo, a symbol of grit and commitment, is at the center of the debate.
The outcome of this story will depend on whether Barça considers his leadership and potential to be worth more than the 70M Juventus is willing to pay.