Real Madrid boss Alonso speaks out on Ronald Araújo’s Barcelona situation | OneFootball

Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso has provided his take on the complicated situation currently being endured by Barcelona star Ronald Araújo.

This comes amid the understanding that the Uruguayan has been granted a spell of leave from competitive duties in Catalunya’s capital.

Suffering mentally after his costly mistake against Chelsea in the Champions League last week, and the backlash which has followed, Araújo requested time away to recover and recharge.

Despite the unusual nature of the situation, Hansi Flick and his staff were more than happy to grant the 26-year-old’s wish.

Araújo, in turn, will not be available to feature against Atlético Madrid later this evening.

With the situation therefore having a potential impact on the ongoing battle for the La Liga title, Xabi Alonso was on Tuesday asked for his take on Araújo’s recent struggles.

And Real Madrid’s headmaster issued a compassionate response, explaining:

“Araújo taking time off for his mental wellbeing? We must respect the players; they are not machines. It is their responsibility. If they made this decision and it was for the sake of this young man’s well-being, it makes sense to me.”

Conor Laird – GSFN