Barcelona secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Las Palmas yesterday, maintaining its position at the top of La Liga and reinforcing its strong form under coach Hansi Flick.
Dani Olmo and Ferran Torres found the net in the 62nd and 90+6th minutes, respectively, helping Barcelona reach 54 points with 17 wins, three draws, and five losses.
Despite the positive result, questions arose regarding the future of defender Ronald Araujo. According to Spanish outlet El Nacional, Araujo, once a defensive pillar for Barcelona, has seemingly fallen out of Flick’s favor. In the absence of Iñigo Martínez, the coach opted for Eric Garcia instead of Araujo, signaling a shift in defensive priorities.
Pau Cubarsí’s emergence has played a key role in this transition, as his consistent performances have secured him a spot in Flick’s starting lineup. Additionally, Iñigo Martínez’s experience and ability on the ball align with Flick’s tactical approach, further limiting Araujo’s opportunities. Even when Martínez was unavailable against Las Palmas, Araujo was not the preferred replacement.
Barcelona previously rejected offers for Araujo and extended his contract, but his diminishing role under Flick raises doubts about his future. With a market value of around €60 million, selling him could help the club financially while allowing reinforcements in other areas.
Flick’s decision is clear—Araujo is no longer a core part of Barcelona’s defense, with Cubarsí and Martínez now the preferred center-back duo.
