Barcelona star who Xavi wanted to keep has no place under Hansi Flick

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has informed a member of the defensive ranks at the club that he is not part of his plans for the season ahead.

That’s according to Diario Sport, who point towards Julián Araujo as the player in question.

Defender Araujo, for his part, is fresh off an impressive loan stint away from Barcelona, with La Liga rivals Las Palmas.

The understanding was that the 22-year-old’s efforts whilst in Gran Canaria had proven enough to convince former Barca boss Xavi of his readiness to contribute with the club in 2024/25.

Upon the Spaniard being dismissed, and Hansi Flick being appointed in his place, however, Araujo’s place at the Camp Nou was thrown somewhat up in the air.

And, as alluded to above, this week, a final decision is understood to have been reached.

As per Sport:

‘Hansi Flick does not count on him and has other preferences for his theoretical position, that of right-back.’

In altogether more positive news for Araujo, though, it is also noted that the Mexican will not be at all short of suitors over the final weeks of the transfer market.

This comes amid interest in his services on the part of all of Girona, Real Betis, and Sevilla.

Conor Laird | GSFN