Ronald Araujo backs Barcelona to win Champions League and makes Julian Alvarez admission: ‘I wanted him…’ | OneFootball

Ronald Araujo may now be experiencing the season from the other side of Europe, but the Barcelona defender is clearly still keeping a close eye on his former club.

The Uruguayan, currently on loan at Liverpool, featured in the Reds’ 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid at Anfield. 

He was one of the players who spoke to the media after the match, and Araujo made no secret of his belief that Hansi Flick’s team can challenge for the biggest prize in European football.

“Of course, Barcelona are one of the favourites to win the Champions League. They’re flying,” said the Uruguayan.

Araujo’s assessment comes as Barcelona continue to make a strong impression in Europe, which includes a 5-1 win over Feyenoord.

Despite leaving the club temporarily, the centre-back is following their progress and remains emotionally invested in the fortunes of his former teammates.

Araujo admits he is still following Barcelona

Araujo revealed that he continues to watch what is happening at Barcelona and is particularly pleased with the way his former teammates are performing.

“I’m following them. I’m very happy for my teammates. They’ve got a great team. 

“I’m always rooting for them and I’m really delighted with what they’re going through at the moment,” he explained.

Araujo spent years at the Catalan club and established himself as an important part of the defence. 

His current loan spell means he is experiencing the Champions League from a different perspective, but his assessment of Barcelona suggests he has lost none of his interest in their campaign.

Araujo wanted Julian Alvarez at Barcelona

The conversation also turned to Julian Alvarez and the possibility of the Argentine joining Barcelona.

Araujo was openly supportive of the idea and admitted that he wanted the move to happen when there was an opportunity.

Araujo reveals he wanted Julian Alvarez at Barcelona. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)

“Absolutely, in the end he’s a great player, and for me, he’s one of the best players in the world. 

“And when there was a chance, I wanted him to be at Barcelona, and I don’t hide that.”

Alvarez remains an important figure for Atletico Madrid, which made the subject particularly relevant after Liverpool’s meeting with Diego Simeone’s side.

Araujo was then asked whether he understood Atletico’s position regarding the Argentine forward, to which he said,

“I think this matter doesn’t concern me, and it’s not for me to get involved in it. 

“What I want is for Julian to be well, because that’s the most important thing in the end. Every player wants to give their best and wants to be happy within the team,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo