FC Barcelona and Atlético de Madrid offered an unforgettable match at Montjuïc in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinals. With a thrilling 4-4 that left everyone speechless. However, beyond the madness of the scoreline, the big headline from the match was the definitive confirmation that Flick has sidelined a key Barça player.
A footballer who not long ago was untouchable and considered an essential piece in the culé squad. But who has gradually lost prominence until being relegated to a secondary role. Against Atlético, his benching was the definitive proof that his role in the team has changed drastically.
Flick Has Put a Cross on Him
Flick's decision is not new. In recent weeks, this player has been watching from the bench as Pau Cubarsí and Íñigo Martínez have established themselves as the trusted center-back pair for the German coach. What once seemed like a simple rotation is now an indisputable reality.
The match against Atlético only reaffirmed this trend. Despite Barça conceding four goals, the defense led by Cubarsí and Íñigo Martínez played a prominent role in phases of the match. Both center-backs showed solidity, were key in ball distribution, and also contributed to the attack by scoring a goal each.
Meanwhile, the big casualty remained on the bench, without minutes in a crucial match. Flick has sent a clear message, and what seemed like a warning is now a sentence.
Barça Needs to Sell in Summer
This situation comes at a crucial moment for the club. Barça needs to cash in during the summer and financial fair play remains a problem.
Joan Laporta's board is clear that some departures will be inevitable. In this context, the sale of a player who was once untransferable is now a real option.
Teams like Bayern Munich, Manchester United, and Chelsea have long shown interest in strengthening their defense with this footballer. And with Flick relegating him to the bench, Barça could seize the opportunity to close a lucrative sale.
The Barça board knows that the summer transfer market will be crucial. If the player doesn't regain his place, his departure could be one of the big operations of the year.
The Future of This Barça Star, Up in the Air
What seemed unthinkable a few months ago is now an increasingly evident reality. Ronald Araújo could be living his last months at Barça.
The Uruguayan center-back, who has been a leader in the locker room and one of the most beloved players by the fans, has lost prominence. If the situation doesn't change in the coming months, his continuity will be more in doubt than ever.
Araújo needs minutes and prominence to continue evolving as one of the best defenders in the world. However, Flick has already made a decision, and if he doesn't count on him, he will seek an exit next transfer market.
Meanwhile, Barça continues in the Copa del Rey, with a defense that seems to have found a new trusted pair in Cubarsí and Íñigo Martínez. And in this new scheme, it seems there is no longer a place for Ronald Araújo.