Ronald Araujo is going through one of the darkest moments of his career. Just a week after wearing the captain’s armband in the Champions League, the Barça defender has hit rock bottom — sent off against Chelsea, ruled out versus Alavés, and now struggling mentally to the point of asking for a break from football.
His downward spiral accelerated quickly. Against Chelsea, Araujo completely lost his composure: first a yellow card for dissent, then a reckless tackle on Cucurella leading to a clear red card.
Reduced to ten men, Barcelona collapsed 3–0 at Stamford Bridge. Hansi Flick tried to defend his player afterward, suggesting the decisions were harsh and promising a “different Barça” soon.
Days later, the situation worsened. Officially ruled out with stomach issues before the Alavés match, Araujo was actually dealing with far deeper personal struggles. Flick admitted the Uruguayan was “not ready to play,” asking for privacy regarding the matter.
According to Marca and Mundo Deportivo, Araujo’s agents met with the club on Monday to find solutions and help him mentally recover from this turbulent stretch.
The defender has now asked for time away from football to rebuild himself psychologically — a request Barcelona have accepted. No return date has been set, as the priority is supporting their vicecaptain through this difficult period.
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