Ronald Araújo was injured in the summer while playing for the Uruguayan national team. The hamstring injury kept him off the field, leaving FC Barcelona in a difficult situation. The concern at the club was evident: losing their defensive pillar for months was a major challenge for the team.
However, the work of Íñigo Martínez and the young Pau Cubarsí has been exceptional, providing the team with security in the back line. Both defenders have more than fulfillled their role, but the hope of seeing Araújo on the field again remains latent.
Ronald Araújo: absolute surprise with his condition
Now, Araújo is facing the final stretch of his recovery, and the surprise is huge. Initial predictions placed his return in December or even January, but the Uruguayan could return sooner than expected. Despite the caution maintained by the coaching staff, Araújo himself is feeling better and better.
He has made notable progress in training, and his physical condition has surprised everyone, including his teammates and medical staff. Although there's no urgency in his return, the pace of his recovery is encouraging.
Pau Cubarsí has admitted in close circles that Araújo's current condition gives hope. For Cubarsí, seeing his teammate making rapid progress in recovery is a further encouragement for the team.
However, the club remains cautious. FC Barcelona have made it clear that they will not rush the deadlines to avoid a relapse. Although the defensive line could benefit from Araújo's experience and ability, the coaching staff prefers to wait until he is fully recovered. The Martínez-Cubarsí duo has shown solidity, allowing the team to maintain its defensive performance without losing ground in the standings.
Ronald Araújo, Pau Cubarsí's new partner
Araújo's return is rumored to be after the next FIFA matchday in November. He is unlikely to take part in La Liga or Champions League matches at the end of that month. Despite this, his return is expected before the end of the year. With this news, Barcelona would've an even more complete defense for the decisive matches of the season.
Ronald Araújo seems to be on the verge of surprising everyone with his early return and the news is a relief for the Barça fans. Meanwhile, Barcelona continue to trust in the work of Íñigo Martínez and Pau Cubarsí. The team's defensive strength has remained flawless. Even so, with the return of Araújo, Hansi Flick's team gains a key piece for what remains.