Hansi Flick keeps making key decisions at FC Barcelona, and one of them is directly related to the defense. The German coach, after several matchdays, has concluded that there's a player who doesn't fit into his system. He has given him opportunities, but his response hasn't lived up to what was desired.
For Hansi Flick, the only untouchable in the backline is Pau Cubarsí, who has become an undisputed pillar despite his youth. However, the partnership in the starting eleven with his current center-back partner hasn't worked out. What should be a solid duo has caused more doubts than certainties so far.
A player under scrutiny in Barça's defense
The name that has come under question is Ronald Araujo. The Uruguayan, who until recently was considered one of the club's main defensive leaders, has lost importance in the coach's plans. Flick's idea is clear: he needs a center-back with better ball distribution, more precision in building up play, and better adapted to the possession-based culer style.
Although Araujo enjoys the admiration of his teammates and is highly respected in the locker room, his defensive profile doesn't quite fit the playing philosophy. The main casualty of the revolution Hansi Flick is planning seems to be defined.
Juventus insist on the signing
According to "El Nacional", Juventus haven't lost sight of Araujo. The Italians already showed interest in signing him last January, and now they're planning to make another move in the winter transfer window. The offer being considered would be around €30 million, a significant amount (about $32.6 million), although not enough to convince Barça.
The blaugrana board believe that Araujo's value is higher and that, even though he's not Flick's preferred choice, he's still an international-level center-back. For this reason, they won't accept less than what they believe his departure deserves.
Open future for Ronald Araujo
Araujo's situation, in this way, opens up several scenarios. On one hand, there's the possibility that Juventus will step up their efforts and present an offer closer to FC Barcelona's demands (about €50 million, or about $54.4 million). On the other hand, the Uruguayan could reconsider his future at a club where he no longer enjoys the full trust of the coach.
Ronald Araujo himself keeps a great relationship with Pau Cubarsí, but the reality is that the partnership hasn't worked as was desired. This has accelerated Hansi Flick's decision to prioritize another center-back profile, preferably left-footed, to build his project.