“I cautioned Hansi Flick about that player, but he insisted on keeping him in the lineup. He’s consistently been a problem for the team, and it was his error that led to the fourth goal which cost us a place in the Champions League final,” former Barcelona boss Xavi blasts ONE player he believes should never start for the club, blaming Flick for ignoring his warning.

Xavi Slams Araujo After Barcelona’s Champions League Exit to Inter Milan

In the aftermath of Barcelona’s heartbreaking Champions League semi-final defeat to Inter Milan, former manager Xavi Hernández has publicly criticized defender Ronald Araujo, accusing him of being a liability in high-pressure situations.

Barcelona’s dramatic 4-3 loss on the night and 7-6 aggregate exit saw the Catalans narrowly miss out on a place in the final, and Xavi believes one player was largely to blame.

Speaking to Spanish media after the match, Xavi didn’t mince words about the Uruguayan centre-back’s performance.

> “I warned Flick about that particular player. He refused to bench him. He keeps causing problems for the team. That fourth goal that denied us a spot in the final — he was responsible,” Xavi stated.

Araujo, who was introduced in the second half as Barcelona sought to hold on to their aggregate lead, struggled to cope with Inter’s relentless pressure. Despite making three clearances, the 25-year-old was dribbled past on multiple occasions, caught out of position for Inter’s decisive fourth goal, and managed to win just one ground duel while conceding two fouls. His underwhelming display has once again raised doubts about his ability to deliver in the biggest moments.

The match itself was a thriller, with both sides trading blows in a contest that swung back and forth. Barcelona initially looked on course for the final, but defensive lapses in the closing stages proved costly. Inter capitalized ruthlessly, with Araujo’s failure to track his runner for the final goal sealing Barcelona’s fate.

With Hansi Flick now under pressure for his team selection choices, questions are being asked about whether he will continue to trust Araujo in high-stakes fixtures. The German coach, who succeeded Xavi last summer, had kept faith in Araujo throughout the campaign, but this latest error may force a rethink.

Barcelona’s elimination has left fans and pundits alike demanding accountability, with many calling for changes in the defensive line ahead of next season. As tensions simmer in Catalonia, all eyes will be on how Flick responds to Xavi’s criticism and whether Araujo can bounce back from a night to forget.