Struggling Barcelona defender to travel with squad for Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia – Report | OneFootball

FC Barcelona started 2026 with an important win against local rivals Espanyol at the RCDE Stadium. An incredible goal from Dani Olmo and a delicate chip from Robert Lewandowski ensured all three points for Hansi Flick’s team, despite a performance that left much to be desired.

One notable return to the group was Ronald Araujo, who had resumed training ahead of the Espanyol clash but was not included in the matchday squad. The Uruguayan had been absent for over a month due to mental health issues.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Araujo is expected to join his teammates for their trip to Saudi Arabia, where they take on Athletic Club in the semi-finals of the Spanish Super Cup, as they seek their first trophy of the season.

Despite the South American making the trip to the Middle East, there is no clarity on whether he will be ready to play again under Hansi Flick. The club is being very patient with his recovery as he looks to get back to his best mental state.

In Araujo’s absence, Gerard Martin has forged an excellent central defensive partnership with Pau Cubarsi, and the duo is likely to be the preferred choice for Hansi Flick in the two games, especially with a trophy on the line.

Araujo, meanwhile, is the club’s second captain, and he will be in and around the squad, supporting them and helping wherever possible. If he is ready to take the pitch, it will then be up to Hansi Flick to choose when to give him minutes.

With Andreas Christensen’s injury, Barcelona are extremely stretched in the centre-back position, and the return of Araujo, hopefully in his best condition, would almost be the equivalent of a January signing for Hansi Flick. Let us wait and see what happens in Saudi Arabia regarding the South American.