Barcelona €70 million-rated leader prioritises continuity at club, optimism about renewal

Ronald Araujo is without a doubt one of FC Barcelona’s most important assets in the current roster. As such, his injury in July was seen as a huge blow to the club’s ambitions but under Hansi Flick, they have managed to thrive despite the Uruguayan’s absence.

However, given the importance he carries, as a player and one of the team captains, Araujo’s return from injury is eagerly anticipated, with the centre-back now in the final phase of his recovery.

Optimism about renewal

Furthermore, SPORT reports that there is now a feeling of optimism within Barcelona when it comes to the topic of Araujo’s contract renewal, which had stalled at various points in the past.

The Uruguayan is eager to remain with the Blaugrana and has made his continuity at the club an absolute priority, which could lead to an eventual agreement between both parties.

Araujo and his representatives have paused negotiations until the player is fully recovered from his injury, but there could be developments by early next year.

Araujo’s current contract expires in 2026, and Barcelona do not wish to prolong negotiations to avoid entering his final contract year without an extension.

A change in direction

Araujo’s future had at Barcelona become a little uncertain towards the end of last season. The club presented him with a renewal offer, but no agreement was reached, despite the Uruguayan’s desire to stay.

However, everything changed due to the Uruguayan’s feelings, as he was very upset by some criticism from within the dressing room and a lack of public backing from former manager, Xavi Hernandez.

This rift created a wall between the parties, and Araujo went to Copa America with his future very uncertain. Things were further complicated because Barcelona needed to sell in the summer and Manchester United pressed very hard to sign him.

However, the defender’s injury put an end to speculations and, more importantly, the appointment of Hansi Flick, who fully trusts the player, changed things as well. The German considers Araujo one of the best centre-backs in the world and wants him to stay.

Araujo, for his part, has always maintained his desire to stay and, therefore, was willing to make financial concessions as he did in the past when he signed until 2026. He believes that Flick’s project is exciting, and this could be a championship-winning team.

While there is no agreement yet, the feeling between the parties is now different, and solutions will be explored.

*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication.