Barcelona star sends message of support to Ronald Araujo – “We need him” | OneFootball

Barcelona are currently without the services of Ronald Araujo, who is currently on an indefinite leave of absence as he seeks to recover mentally following a number of setbacks over the last few months.

Araujo travelled to Tel Aviv earlier this week, with his plan being to visit churches as part of his efforts to recover. In the meantime, his teammates won 2-1 against Eintracht Frankfurt on Tuesday, and after that match, Pedri was asked about the matter.

As per TNT Sports (via MD), the midfielder paid tribute to Araujo, whom he hopes to see back in action as soon as possible.

“It’s not an easy issue. I give him all the encouragement in the world, I’ve already talked about it with him in private. He’s one of the family, we love him very much and we need him both on and off the pitch. These are things that happen. There are mistakes on and off the field. We all make mistakes and we need him because, for me, he is a brother. I love him very much and I want him to be with us as soon as possible, when he is well.”

Image via Alex Caparros/Getty Images

Barcelona are considering Araujo replacement for January

Araujo’s absence means that Barcelona are one player down in the centre of defence, which has been a problem area of the pitch for the vast majority of the season. The club plans to sign a top-level player in his position next summer, although it has been reported that someone could arrive in the winter as cover for the Uruguay international.

It remains to be seen when Araujo returns, but understandably, there will be no haste with his decision. Barcelona will want their defender to be at 100% by the time he does make his comeback to the pitch.