Araujo fires warning before Atletico clash and speaks on Barcelona-linked forward: ‘One of the best in the world’ | OneFootball

Barcelona captain Ronald Araujo has shared his thoughts ahead of the crucial Copa del Rey semi-final against Atletico Madrid, while also giving his verdict on striker Julian Alvarez, who has recently been linked with a move to the Catalan club.

The Uruguayan defender spoke to Mundo Deportivo and made it clear that the squad is in good spirits after a positive run of results. 

“We’re doing well, we’re on a good run. We’re training very well, we know it will be difficult against a great team like Atletico Madrid, but we’re ready to reach the final,” he began.

Atletico Madrid are always a tough opponent, especially in knockout competitions. 

However, Araujo insisted that Barcelona were not concerned about the draw and believe in their own strength, regardless of the opponent.

“When we were watching the draw, we didn’t have a preferred opponent. We have a great team and we can take on any challenge. 

“In the end, we got a very big team like Atletico, and we know it will be difficult, but if we play our game, we are capable of reaching the final.”

On Julian Alvarez

One of the biggest threats Barcelona will face in the tie is Julian Alvarez. 

The Argentine striker has been in excellent form and is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous forwards in Europe right now. Araujo did not hesitate to praise him.

Araujo has nothing but praise for Julian Alvarez. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“He’s a great player and for me, he’s one of the best strikers in the world. You can see the quality he has.”

When asked about the rumours linking Alvarez with a move to Barcelona, Araujo gave a confident and typical captain’s response, emphasising the club’s stature.

“The best players have to be at the best club, which is us. That’s obvious. But it’s not my job to do that work or make that decision.”

La Liga race and UCL ambitions

The defender also spoke about the La Liga title race, which remains extremely tight. With only one point separating Barcelona and Real Madrid, Araujo stressed the importance of staying focused in every match.

“The league will be very tough until the end. We are only one point ahead. Every game will be like a final and we have to approach every match with great seriousness.”

Finally, Araujo addressed Barcelona’s ambitions in the Champions League. 

Despite the competition’s difficulty, the captain made it clear that the club must always believe in lifting the trophy.

“Of course, we can aspire to win the Champions League. We are Barça and we always have to have the courage to believe we can win it. Barça always has to believe it can do it,” he explained.