Barcelona return to La Liga action this Sunday (25th) against Real Oviedo, with manager Hansi Flick hinting at a major defensive reshuffle involving the return of Ronald Araújo to the starting XI.
The Uruguayan powerhouse hasn’t started a competitive match since his controversial red card in the 3-0 defeat to Chelsea back in November 2025. After a period away for personal reasons, Araújo has recently made appearances off the bench against Real Madrid and Slavia Prague, but he is now ready to reclaim his spot in the heart of the defense.
Flick’s Tactical Challenge
Despite recent victories, Barcelona’s defense has looked vulnerable, conceding six goals in their last three outings. Speaking ahead of the clash at the Estádio Olímpico Lluís Companys, Hansi Flick emphasized the need for total concentration.
“We are making mistakes that lead to goals,” Flick analyzed. “We’ve talked about it; we need to be focused for the full 90 minutes. We’ve conceded the opening goal too often lately, and playing at home, we have to dominate from the start.”
Flick also took time to praise young star Pau Cubarsí, calling him “one of the best defenders in Spain,” leaving a selection headache over whether to partner the veteran Araújo with the teenager or keep Gerard Martín in the lineup.
🗣️ Hansi Flick on 𝐑𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐝 𝐀𝐫𝐚𝐮𝐣𝐨:
“He’s doing really well. He’s an option to start, but we’ll see. We’ll decide tomorrow.” pic.twitter.com/juRJoqRZLj
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 24, 2026
Predicted Lineups (via WhoScored)
- Barcelona: Joan García; Koundé, Cubarsí, Ronald Araújo (or Gerard Martín), Balde; Eric García, De Jong, Dani Olmo; Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, Lewandowski.
- Real Oviedo: Escandell; Vidal, Carmo, Costas, Alhassane; Sibo, Colombatto, Chaira, Reina, Hassan; Viñas.
Key Match Info
- Competition: La Liga (Round 21)
- Kick-off: 15:15 CET
- Venue: Estádio Olímpico Lluís Companys
Gabriel Lucio is a football analyst covering La Liga, focusing on match analysis, tactical trends, and the race for domestic and European positions.
