Barcelona sporting director Deco has this weekend confirmed that the club have no plans to part with defensive star Ronald Araújo this summer.
Defender Araújo has of course seen his status in Hansi Flick’s squad thrown increasingly into doubt over recent months.
After returning from a long-term spell on the sidelines, the Uruguayan struggled to regain his best form, culminating in widespread criticism on the part of the Barcelona faithful.
Not only that, but with Pau Cubarsí and Iñigo Martínez now firmly ahead of him in the defensive pecking order at the Camp Nou, some have gone as far as to call for Araújo to be shipped off at the earliest opportunity.
Speaking to the media this weekend, it therefore came as little surprise when the aforementioned Deco was asked for an update on the club’s plans for Araújo.
In quotes provided to La Vanguardia, relaid by journalist Fabrizio Romano, though, the Blaugrana chief made use of the opportunity to shut down any and all speculation surrounding a potential exit for the 26-year-old:
“One centre back will leave but Ronald is not in our plans to leave. He received unfair criticism last year. He’s one of the best defenders in the world.”
Conor Laird – GSFN
