Barcelona captain likely to travel to Saudi Arabia but playing chances remain unclear | OneFootball

Barcelona’s preparations for the Spanish Super Cup continue to gather pace, and one of the most closely watched storylines revolves around the situation of Ronald Araujo. 

According to a recent report from SPORT, the Uruguayan defender is expected to travel with the rest of the squad to Saudi Arabia for the upcoming tournament.

While his inclusion in the travelling party may raise eyebrows, the report makes it clear that this move is not being viewed through a purely sporting lens. 

At this stage, Araujo’s presence is more about reintegration than immediate minutes on the pitch. 

The club’s priority is to help him feel part of the group again after a challenging period away from competitive action.

No fixed return planned

Araujo has not featured for Barcelona since his red card against Chelsea in late November. 

Since then, the defender stepped away from matchday involvement, although he has since returned to training following the festive break. 

Araujo could be included in the Super Cup squad. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

After the win over Espanyol, Barcelona enjoyed a rest day on Sunday and are scheduled to return to training on Monday. 

After that session, Hansi Flick is expected to announce the squad list for the trip to Saudi Arabia. As things stand, Araujo is widely expected to be included in that list.

Although a final decision has not yet been officially confirmed, club sources suggest that all signs point towards the Uruguayan travelling with the team. 

Even then, there is no expectation that he will feature against Athletic Club or in a potential final. 

Instead, the focus is on allowing him to stay close to the squad, train regularly and slowly regain rhythm and confidence. 

Notably, FLick has consistently stressed that the process remains in the player’s hands. 

Barcelona are prepared to wait, listen and adapt, allowing Araujo himself to decide when he is ready to take the next step.