“I want him to feel 100% ready” - Barcelona coach Hansi Flick provides Ronald Araujo injury update ahead of Mallorca clash
Hansi Flick has suggested Ronald Araujo might be available for Barcelona's encounter with Mallorca on Tuesday (December 3). The Uruguayan is closing in on a return to action after spending a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Araujo has not played a single game this season due to a hamstring tendon injury. His absence has been felt as of late as the Blaugrana have gone three games without a win in La Liga.
Barcelona's latest setback came in a 2-1 home loss to Las Palmas on Saturday. Flick is tasked with getting the Catalans to return to winning ways starting with Mallorca.
The German coach might have Araujo back for that game judging by his comments in his pre-match press conference. He told reporters (via transfer expert Fabrizio Romano):
"Ronald Araujo feels better. He’s at good level already now. I don’t know if he will be back tomorrow or in next games, I want him to feel 100% ready for it."
Araujo, 25, might not have played under Flick but has impressed the new Barca boss behind the scenes. He reportedly admires the Uruguay international's strong character, which could be crucial during this difficult run of results.
Barcelona remain top of La Liga despite going three games without a win. They hold just a one-point lead over second-placed Real Madrid, who have a game in hand.
Dani Olmo looks set to be available for Barcelona against Mallorca
Dani Olmo sat out Barcelona's defeat to Las Palmas due to a minor discomfort. The Spanish attacker's issue isn't too problematic, and he's expected back for the Mallorca game.
Flick said regarding Olmo (via the source above):
"Dani Olmo is back and he’s available, he could start tomorrow."
Olmo, 26, arrived at Barca from RB Leipzig in the summer for a reported €47 million. He's netted six goals in 10 appearances across competitions and looks likely to be involved in Flick's starting XI.
The Catalans are under pressure to get all three points against Mallorca with Madrid breathing down their necks. They had made a scintillating start to the season but have come off the boil in recent weeks.
The loss to Las Palmas came after a 2-2 draw against Celta Vigo and a 1-0 defeat to Real Sociedad. Madrid's 2-0 win over Getafe on Sunday puts them at risk of squandering a significant initial lead in the La Liga title race.