Barcelona hopeful of having star defender return early from international break – report | OneFootball

FC Barcelona have already welcomed back one key player from international duty, and they might soon see another return earlier than expected.

Young centre-back Pau Cubarsi has rejoined the squad after sustaining a minor knock during the Netherlands game. Now, all eyes are on Ronald Araujo, who could also return ahead of schedule—not due to injury, but potentially to avoid unnecessary fatigue.

Barcelona keeping close eye on Araujo situation

As reported by Mundo Deportivo, the Uruguayan centre-back played the full 90 minutes in his nation’s recent 0-1 defeat against Argentina.

With Marcelo Bielsa’s squad now preparing for a physically demanding World Cup qualifier against Bolivia in the extreme altitude of La Paz (4,150 meters above sea level), Araujo’s participation remains uncertain.

Bielsa hinted at making significant lineup changes for the match, acknowledging the toll high-altitude conditions can take on players.

All eyes on Ronald Araujo as Bielsa makes key decisions (Photo by Ernesto Ryan/Getty Images)

Barcelona are closely monitoring the situation, hopeful that Araujo might be spared from the trip or, at the very least, rested for the match.

The Uruguayan Football Federation has already announced the release of two players – Giorgian De Arrascaeta and Nicolas de la Cruz – allowing them to return to Flamengo.

This raises the possibility that more players, including Araujo, could also be sent back to their clubs early.

If Araujo is excused from the Bolivia match, it would be a major boost for Barcelona, who face a crucial La Liga fixture against Osasuna on Thursday.

Even if he isn’t sent home early, avoiding game-time in such gruelling conditions would minimize the risk of fatigue or injury before he returns to Spain.