Barcelona captain sets wheels in motion for comeback | OneFootball

With La Liga set to resume this weekend, Barcelona have shifted their full focus towards the Catalan derby against Espanyol. 

Preparations are already well underway at the Ciutat Esportiva, as the squad gradually returns to a competitive rhythm following the festive break.

Barcelona players have been back in training for several days now, and among the most closely watched figures is Ronald Araujo. 

The Uruguayan centre-back has rejoined group sessions after a prolonged absence and has now completed four full training sessions since returning last Monday, during an open training session that drew plenty of attention.

However, despite his presence on the training pitch, doubts remain over whether Araujo will be ready in time for the derby. 

According to a report from Mundo Deportivo, there is still uncertainty surrounding his immediate availability for the clash against Espanyol, with the club adopting a cautious approach.

What happened to Araujo?

Araujo’s absence has not been purely physical. After his sending-off in the match against Chelsea on November 25, the defender requested time away from training to focus on his mental well-being. 

He spent nearly a month away from the Ciutat Esportiva and worked individually in Uruguay with a personal trainer from just before the Christmas holidays. 

Araujo’s return is still uncertain. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

While he followed the programme designed by the club, there was never a fixed timeline established for his return to competitive action.

So what now?

This careful handling continues now that he is back with the group. 

Barcelona are keen to ensure that Araujo feels fully ready, both mentally and physically, before being thrown back into the intensity of matchday football. 

There is no pressure from the club’s side to rush the process, even with an important derby approaching.

Now, all eyes will turn to Hansi Flick, who is scheduled to speak at the pre-match press conference later today. 

The manager is one of the key figures Araujo is expected to consult before making any final decision on his return. 

Alongside Flick, trusted voices such as club doctor Ricard Pruna, sporting director Deco, and the mental health specialist working closely with the player will all be involved in the process.