Indefinite Leave: Barcelona unsure if their defender will return | OneFootball

Club prioritises recovery over football

Indefinite Leave: Barcelona unsure if their defender will return

Barcelona are facing the alarming possibility that Ronald Araujo may never wear the club shirt again.

The defender battles severe mental health crisis triggered by relentless pressure & public criticism.

The Uruguayan centre back recently asked for indefinite leave of absence describing state of “constant anxiety & stress” following the Champions League defeat to Chelsea where Barcelona crashed 3-0.

According to Spanish outlet COPE, Araujo has been suffering repeated anxiety episodes since that match prompting request for what he termed “temporary retirement” to protect his psychological wellbeing.

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick confirmed that the issue is mental health related dismissing earlier claims from the club that the defender was suffering from gastrointestinal problems.

Journalist Juanma Castano speaking on COPE, issued stark warning:

He described Araujo’s condition as “critical” adding that the uncertainty surrounding the player has stunned the club.

Barcelona Stand behind Araujo but cannot set return date

Castano revealed that Barcelona are supporting Araujo fully aware of the emotional toll & psychological fragility the player is experiencing.

Araujo was advised by some club officials not to rush his return stressing that his psychological recovery comes before football.

Barcelona have not set any forecast for his return and the club hierarchy is internally considering reinforcements during the upcoming winter transfer window should Araujo’s absence extend beyond weeks.

The Telegraph reports that Araujo has been left out of the squad for two consecutive match while Barcelona president Joan Laporta publicly urged supporters to stand by him after he suffered online abuse in the wake of the Chelsea match.

Critics blamed the Uruguayan for compromising the team defensively and “costing three goals & three points” an avalanche of negativity that reportedly pushed the defender to breaking point.