Ronald Araujo returns to Barcelona training after mental health break

By SABC Sport
30th December 2025

Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo has rejoined the squad for training after taking a month-long leave of absence to focus on his mental health.

The 26-year-old missed games following his sending off in Barcelona's 3Ã¢-0 Champions League defeat to Chelsea in November.

During his time away, Araujo traveled on a spiritual pilgrimage to Israel and Jordan and then returned to Uruguay, where he trained individually over the Christmas period. He returned to Barcelona this past weekend and participated in Monday's open session at the Estadi Johan Cruyff as Hansi Flick's side resumed preparations following a brief winter break.

Araujo's return comes at a critical time for Barcelona, who are dealing with defensive shortages. Andreas Christensen is sidelined with a partial ACL injury, likely keeping him out until April. The club currently has only six senior defenders, including Eric Garcia, Jules Kounde, Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Pique, and Araujo himself.

While Araujo trained with the team on Monday, the exact date for his competitive return has not yet been confirmed. Barcelona officials are taking a cautious approach, ensuring he is psychologically and physically ready before stepping back onto the pitch. The team's next match is a LaLiga derby against Espanyol on January 3, followed by the Spanish Supercopa in Saudi Arabia, with a semifinal against Athletic Club on January 7 and a potential final against either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid.

The Uruguayan center-back's return could ease pressure on manager Hansi Flick and Director of Football Deco, who are also considering reinforcements for the backline in the January transfer window. Potential short-term signings under discussion include Manchester City's Nathan Ake and Chelsea's Axel Disasi, should Barcelona need to bolster their defensive options further.

Araujo's reintegration is seen as crucial for Barcelona's ambitions this season, particularly as the team looks to navigate the challenges of a busy fixture schedule while contending for domestic and European honours.