Barcelona is undergoing a deep renewal process. Not only at the institutional and economic level, but also within its squad. Young players are gaining importance.
Some veterans, meanwhile, are seeing their roles reduced or are even considering departures. This is the case of Ronald Araújo, although his situation has taken an unexpected turn.
In every transfer window, his name appears among the candidates to leave. He is one of the players with the highest market value and, therefore, one who could bring in significant revenue. However, the club has decided to close the exit door for him.
Flick's version
The other day, Hansi Flick spoke clearly, "I'm surprised this is coming up about Ronald. I'm very happy with the team I have," said the new blaugrana coach. According to the German manager, there are no signs that the Uruguayan center-back wants to leave and he doesn't intend to facilitate any departures.
The situation has changed compared to previous weeks. Barça approached Jonathan Tah, but the German chose Bayern. That failed move has led the club to revalue Araújo's role.
Flick sees him as key because of his physicality and his ability to recover in open spaces, something more technical profiles like Iñigo or Cubarsí don't offer.
Pau Cubarsí, the big winner
This is where Pau Cubarsí comes in. The young center-back, one of the great revelations of last season, has gone from being a prospect to being a reality.
At just 17, he has earned Flick's and the club's trust. His composure, vision, and ball distribution allow him to compete on equal terms with more experienced players.
Cubarsí has made the most of his opportunities. With the coaching staff considering keeping Araújo as a fixed piece, the natural rotation places the young academy product as the other pillar of the backline.
For now, he has moved ahead of Koundé and Christensen in the race for the starting eleven. From being an alternative, he has become undisputed.
Natural swap
In this quiet renewal, Barça hasn't had to sign from outside; the generational change is at home. Araújo and Cubarsí represent two complementary styles. One physical, the other technical, one a veteran, the other in full bloom.
This swap isn't forced; it's logical. Pau comes out on top, because he has gone from watching from the bench to being the team's immediate future, and Barça also wins: it consolidates a defense with identity, youth, and talent. All of this without spending a single euro.