Barcelona secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Las Palmas yesterday, solidifying its position at the top of La Liga and reinforcing its strong form under manager Hansi Flick. The team’s goals came from Dani Olmo and Ferran Torres, who found the net in the 62nd and 96th minutes, respectively.
This win keeps Barcelona in first place with 54 points, having recorded 17 wins, 3 draws, and 5 losses so far this season.
Despite the positive outcome, the match highlighted growing concerns about the future of a key figure in recent years: Ronald Araujo. According to the Spanish newspaper El Nacional, the Uruguayan defender, once a crucial pillar in Barcelona’s backline, appears to have fallen out of favor with Flick.
Instead of starting Araujo in the absence of Iñigo Martínez, the coach opted for Eric García, suggesting that Araujo is no longer a preferred option in defense.
The rise of Pau Cubarsí has significantly reshaped Barcelona’s defensive setup. The young center-back has earned a regular spot in Flick’s starting lineup, demonstrating his potential to be a long-term leader in defense. His solid performances in recent months have strengthened his place in the team, making him a reliable figure in the backline.
Meanwhile, Iñigo Martínez has also impressed Flick with his composed play and experience, fitting well into the tactical system the coach aims to implement. His ability to distribute the ball efficiently and provide defensive stability has made him a key asset.
Even when Martínez was unavailable against Las Palmas, Flick chose García over Araujo, reinforcing the notion that the Uruguayan has lost his place in the starting XI.
Araujo’s situation has changed dramatically in recent months. During the winter transfer window, Barcelona rejected offers for him and extended his contract, signaling their intent to keep him.
However, with Flick seemingly unconvinced of his importance to the squad, the defender’s future at the club remains uncertain.
Barcelona recognizes Araujo’s significant market value, estimated at around 60 million euros. Given the club’s ongoing financial struggles, selling him could provide much-needed funds to strengthen other areas of the team.
Flick’s decision to consistently bench Araujo sends a clear message: the defender is no longer a priority in the German coach’s plans. With Cubarsí and Martínez now cemented as first-choice center-backs, Araujo has become a secondary option in Barcelona’s defensive hierarchy.
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