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Hansu Flick Outlines plans for the reintroduction of the versatile defender.
FC Barcelona’s injury woes may be approaching an end, with defender Ronald Araujo now fit and ready to return to the team. The Uruguayan defender, who has been out of action since July due to a hamstring injury he picked during international duties, is now set to feature in Barcelona’s La Liga team list for the first time in six months.
Araujo, who has had to undergo surgery, was predicted to be out of action for the rest of the year when he picked up the injury during Uruguay’s dramatic win over Brazil. However, he’s been ahead of the curve with his recovery, although Hansu Flick has maintained his resolve not to rush the player back to action.
Flick’s Comment
Hansu Flick has now confirmed the player’s readiness to return to competitive action. However, he insists that he’ll handle the player’s return carefully by handing him small minutes to return to full action. Flick said, “The plan is he will have his first minutes tomorrow. I cannot say if he will start. But the plan is that he will play some minutes. How long? We have to see. Maybe the first Xi but if he is not, then he will play (from the bench). I think this is the next step. He is ready for that.”
What’s Next
The timing of the center-back’s return to action is significant, with the Catalans needing positive results to maintain their title charge. Real Madrid, currently trailing with one point, pose a formidable challenge, and Araujo’s availability for selection could prove vital for the Catalans as they look to make the most of the end-of-year fixtures.
The Bigger Picture
Several reports from Spain show that Barca is not only optimistic about Araujo’s potential return to action. They’re also expectant that he’ll extend his contract with the club before the session ends. This is fantastic news for fans, as they hope for the club to retain one of its defensive cornerstones. They’d also be hopeful that he hits full form as soon as possible.
