Barcelona star set to make return from injury in December; eyes Borussia Dortmund clash - Reports
Barcelona are hoping to have Ronald Araujo back against Borussia Dortmund next month in the Champions League, according to Barca Blaugranes. The Catalans lock horns against the German giants at the Signal Iduna Park on December 11.
Araujo hasn't kicked a ball this season following his muscle injury picked up at Copa America this summer. The 25-year-old had to undergo surgery but has recently returned to training with the LaLiga giants.
Barcelona, meanwhile, haven't done too badly in his absence. New manager Hansi Flick has unearthed a winning combination in Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez this season. The duo have been excellent together and have provided a defensive solidity to complement the team's attacking adventure. The Catalans have conceded 14 goals in 14 games in the league this season.
Araujo's future has been subject to speculation all summer. Bayern Munich were keen to sign the Uruguayan in January, but the LaLiga giants refused to let him go in midseason. The Bavarians were expected to return for the player this summer, while Manchester United were also named as a possible destination. However, his injury put a pause on his suitors' plans.
With Barcelona still in financial distress, they could be open to Araujo exit in 2025. The player's contract with the Catalans runs until 2026, and he hasn't signed a new deal yet.
How many players are Barcelona currently missing due to injuries?
Barcelona are already without a number of first-team stars at the moment. Marc-Andre ter Stegen picked up a knee injury in September this year and is not expected to play again this season.
Meanwhile, talented young midfielder Marc Bernal ruptured his ACL at the start of the campaign and also remains sidelined for the rest of the season. Apart from Ronald Araujo, the Catalans are also missing Andreas Christensen.
The Danish defender is expected to return to action at the turn of the year, although his future also remains up in the air. Christensen's contract at Camp Nou expires in 2026 as well.
Ferran Torres and Ansu Fati also remain sidelined, but both are expected to return in December. Barcelona have also been without Lamine Yamal in the last three games.
The Spaniard picked up an ankle injury earlier this month, but Hansi Flick has already stated that he will be back against Las Palmas this weekend. Yamal has six goals and eight assists from 16 games this season.