According to reports from the Spanish newspaper El Nacional, Hansi Flick has made a surprising decision regarding his team selection for tonight’s Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid. One of Barcelona’s key defenders, Ronald Araujo, will not be part of the starting lineup. This move comes as a significant shock considering Araujo’s importance to the team in recent seasons.
Flick, who took over the managerial role at Barcelona, had previously hinted that Araujo might feature in the starting eleven. However, in their recent game against Mallorca, although Araujo started, his performance lacked the authority and assurance expected in vital fixtures.
While he didn’t commit any major errors, he failed to show the commanding presence typically associated with him in decisive moments. With such high stakes surrounding the final, Flick appears to have made up his mind.
In the past few seasons, Araujo has been a cornerstone of Barcelona’s defense. Yet, recent performances have not met the standard he once set. Meanwhile, the emergence of young talent Pau Cubarsí and the dependable experience of Iñigo Martínez have reshaped the club’s defensive dynamics.
Cubarsí has impressed with his maturity, calmness on the ball, and solid defensive skills, earning the trust of the coaching staff. Iñigo, on the other hand, offers a wealth of experience and precise passing — qualities Flick highly values, especially in crucial encounters.
Araujo’s form has been inconsistent, and errors in key matches have raised concerns within the technical team. His omission from the final’s starting lineup will undoubtedly be a difficult blow for the Uruguayan, who has long shown leadership and loyalty to the club.
Even though he might be called upon as a substitute, the decision raises questions about his future at Barcelona, particularly with rumored interest from clubs like Manchester United and Bayern Munich.
Since taking charge, Flick has made it clear that selections are based solely on current form and readiness, not on past achievements or player status. This principle is evident in his choice to sideline Araujo for such a pivotal match.
Flick believes Cubarsí and Iñigo, who have built a solid partnership and delivered under pressure, are better suited for this occasion. The message is unmistakable: at Barcelona under Flick’s leadership, no player is untouchable, and consistent performance is the only path to a starting place.
Leave a Reply