Barcelona captain responds to criticism after controversial Phil Foden incident: ‘It’s football’ | OneFootball

Ronald Araujo found himself at the centre of attention during the recent international friendly between England and Uruguay at Wembley, after a strong challenge on Phil Foden raised concerns.

The incident occurred when the Barcelona defender attempted a clearance. 

While he got a touch on the ball, his follow-through caught Foden’s ankle, forcing the Manchester City midfielder to leave the pitch in discomfort.

Although Foden himself chose not to make an issue out of the tackle, the reaction from the opposition bench was very different. 

England coach Thomas Tuchel did not take the challenge lightly and openly criticised Uruguay coach Marcelo Bielsa.

Araujo responds

Speaking during a press conference with the Uruguayan national team, Araujo addressed the situation and provided his version of events. 

He said that he had already spoken with Foden to resolve any tension between them.

“It was a hard tackle, but obviously I went for the ball with no ill intent.”

Phil Foden was injured by Araujo’s challenge. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

He then revealed how the situation was handled after the final whistle, showing the mutual respect between both players.

“After the match, I spoke to him (Foden), I sent him a message, and he told me he was fine and that it was just part of the game—after all, it’s football. 

“People blow things out of proportion, but it’s clear that I go for the ball, and everyone knows I don’t play dirty.”

The Barcelona captain also reflected on how the incident looked on replay, admitting that it appeared worse when slowed down.

“I saw it later, and it’s true that if you freeze the play, it looks really rough. 

“But I went in with the intention of going for the ball; the referee was on the field and VAR was there, and it’s clear that I went for the ball. 

“And the important thing is that I spoke with him, that he’s okay, and that he told me it was nothing, that it’s just soccer, and I’ll take that with me,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo