Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo ended yesterday’s El Clasico with muscular discomfort and will undergo medical tests. Today to determine the extent of his injury. The Uruguayan center-back was forced off the pitch in the second half of the game against Real Madrid. He was replaced by Oscar Mingueza.
This comes as a blow for the Catalan side who have been struggling with defensive injuries throughout the season. With Gerard Pique still recovering from a knee injury and Samuel Umtiti also struggling with fitness issues. Ronald Araujo has been a key figure in Barcelona’s backline.
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Barcelona defender Araujo’s injury could not have come at a worse time for Barcelona. Who have a crucial run of games coming up. The Blaugrana are still in contention for the La Liga title. With just a few points separating them from league leaders Atletico Madrid. In addition, they face Paris Saint-Germain in the second leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie this week. With the tie evenly poised at 1-1 after the first leg.
Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman will be hoping that Araujo’s injury is not too serious. And that the defender will be available for selection in the coming weeks. However, given the nature of muscular injuries, it is difficult to predict how long the 22-year-old will be out for.
What did Barcelona defender say?
Araujo has been a standout performer for Barcelona this season, particularly in the absence of Barcelona defender Pique and Umtiti. The Uruguayan has made 21 appearances for the Catalan side this season, scoring one goal and providing one assist. His physical presence and ability to read the game have been crucial to Barcelona’s defensive solidity.
Despite his relatively young age. Barcelona defender Araujo has shown maturity beyond his years and has established himself as a key member of Koeman’s squad. His injury will be a huge blow for Barcelona, who will have to rely on the likes of Mingueza and Clement Lenglet in his absence.
