Barcelona captain pledges loyalty after win over Daegu FC – ‘They haven’t seen my best version yet’ | OneFootball

Following Barcelona’s emphatic 5-0 victory against Daegu FC in their final pre-season game, Ronald Araujo stepped forward to clear the air about his future at the club.

The Uruguayan defender, who was heavily linked with a January move to Juventus, has now put all speculation to rest with a clear and confident statement: he’s staying at Barcelona, and he is not done proving himself.

When asked if he was 100% certain about continuing at the club, Araujo left no room for doubt. “Of course. I am very happy at Barcelona. They haven’t seen the best Ronald yet, and he is the one who will come in the coming years.”

The 26-year-old was firm in expressing his commitment, showing he has fully moved past any transfer talk and is focused solely on performing at his best in the blaugrana shirt.

Regaining confidence after injury struggles

Araujo admitted that last season took a toll on him, especially from a mental perspective, following injury setbacks that hampered his rhythm and performances.

“Mentally, I’m very confident now, which I lost a bit last year with the injury,” he explained. “This year, I’m very motivated.”

Ronald Araujo is committed to Barcelona. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

His renewed mindset comes after a strong pre-season in which he’s shown signs of being back to full fitness.

“I felt very good during preseason,” he said. “I wanted to do well physically, but last year I struggled. I did very well, feeling very comfortable, more agile, and more confident.”

Competition for places doesn’t worry him

With Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez also pushing for starting roles in central defence, Araujo knows he will need to be at his best to secure a spot under Hansi Flick.

But for the Barcelona captain, competition is welcomed, especially when he’s fit and firing.

As the team returns to Spain and begins final preparations for the Joan Gamper Trophy and the La Liga opener against Mallorca, Araujo’s leadership, physical readiness, and vocal commitment to the club will be vital.

After a difficult year, both physically and mentally, the defender seems determined to make the upcoming season one where he leads not just as a captain, but as the very best version of himself.

Source: AS