Barcelona have received a timely boost ahead of the Spanish Super Cup with the confirmation of Ronald Araújo’s return to the squad. The Uruguayan defender has been included in the team traveling to Saudi Arabia, marking his comeback after a month and a half away from competitive action.
According to RMC Sport, Araújo had been sidelined for psychological reasons, a situation previously acknowledged by the Catalan club.
Araújo Returns After Six Weeks Away
Araújo has not featured in an official match since November 25, when Barcelona suffered a 3–0 defeat to Chelsea in the Champions League. That match ended with the defender being sent off — an incident that preceded his temporary withdrawal from the squad.
Since then, the 26-year-old had remained unavailable as he took time away from competition to focus on his mental well-being.
Barcelona Squad Update for the Super Cup
With Araújo’s reintegration, Barcelona head into the Super Cup with only two confirmed absences. Midfielder Gavi and defender Andreas Christensen are both still sidelined due to injury, according to the official squad list released by the club.
Araújo’s return adds depth and leadership to Barcelona’s defensive options ahead of a demanding tournament.
Mental Health Break Followed Heavy Criticism
The defender’s absence came amid intense criticism, particularly from sections of the media and fanbase. Reports from the Catalan press indicate that Araújo himself requested a break to protect his mental health during a challenging period.
Throughout the process, head coach Hansi Flick remained deliberately discreet. Speaking in November, he said:
“He is not ready at the moment. It’s a personal situation, I don’t want to say anything more and please respect that.”
No timeline was given publicly, as the coaching staff opted to handle the matter internally.
Gradual Return Before Official Call-Up
Araújo resumed full training with the squad last week, though he was not selected for the Clásico against Espanyol. Barcelona went on to win that match 2–0, maintaining their position at the top of La Liga as the defender continued his gradual reintegration.
In total, Araújo missed eight matches across all competitions, a stretch in which Barcelona won every game they played.
Laporta Voices Support
During Araújo’s absence, club president Joan Laporta publicly defended the defender, criticizing the treatment he had received.
“I want to support and defend Araújo. He was heavily criticized and I think that’s unfair,” Laporta said at the time.
Now back in the squad, Araújo’s return represents both a sporting reinforcement and a symbolic moment for Barcelona as they prepare to compete for another title.
Siara Costa is a football editor and writer covering both European men’s and women’s football, with a focus on league competitions, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling.
