Barcelonaâs turbulent season has taken another dramatic turn after club icon Gerard PiquĂ© delivered a blistering assessment of the teamâs struggles, arguing that neither Lamine Yamal nor Hansi Flick should be blamed for the recent collapse. Instead, PiquĂ© pointed to one player he believes has played a major role in Barçaâs downward spiral â Ronald AraĂșjo. His remarks have sparked intense debate across Spain, as supporters reconsider who is truly responsible for the clubâs poor form.
PiquĂ©, known for his honesty and long-standing connection to Barcelona, defended both Yamal and Flick, insisting that criticism directed at them is misplaced. But when it came to AraĂșjo, the former defender offered a far harsher assessment. Once considered the cornerstone of Barçaâs future backline, AraĂșjo has seen his performances questioned after a string of costly errors. âYamal and Flick are NOT the issue,â PiquĂ© emphasised. âFans are blaming the wrong people. Our real problem is coming from elsewhere⊠and AraĂșjo has played a major part in our disappointing season.â
His comments follow Barcelonaâs crushing 3-0 loss to Chelsea in the Champions League â a match that unraveled after AraĂșjoâs disastrous challenge led to a straight red card early in the second half. Already under pressure from Chelseaâs attack, the dismissal left Barça exposed and unable to recover, allowing the Premier League side to dominate completely.
For many supporters, that moment wasnât simply a mistake, but a symbol of a broader pattern â lapses in discipline, loss of focus, and an inability to stay composed under high-stakes pressure. Barcelonaâs Champions League hopes crumbled at the exact moment their defensive leader faltered. âThat red card finished us,â PiquĂ© said. âMoments like that decide everything. It wasnât just one incident â it summed up his whole season.â
Fans have reacted furiously online, accusing AraĂșjo of letting the team down and questioning his commitment. Some believe his mentality has shifted, especially with ongoing rumours linking him to a potential departure. Others point to changes in his body language and decision-making, particularly in tense matches.
The frustration is boiling over. Many supporters are calling for AraĂșjo to be benched immediately, while others suggest Barcelona should consider selling him this summer. Once viewed as the clubâs next great defensive leader, AraĂșjo is now seen by critics as regressing both mentally and technically. For many, the match against Chelsea was the breaking point. âIf he canât stay composed in big games, heâs hurting us,â one fan wrote.
Spanish pundits have echoed the criticism. Some argue that Flickâs system demands intelligence and restraint from defenders â traits AraĂșjo has struggled to consistently show this season. Others say his once-impressive physical style has become reckless and predictable, destabilizing Barcelonaâs back line. One analyst commented, âHeâs too emotional on the pitch. A defender at this level must think before acting. AraĂșjo reacts first â and thatâs costing Barcelona dearly.â
Tensions are reportedly rising inside the club as well. Flick was said to be furious after the Chelsea match, and there are suggestions that his patience is wearing thin. Some players were reportedly upset with AraĂșjo, believing his red card was both avoidable and unforgivable at such a crucial moment.
Perhaps most painful for fans is the contrast between AraĂșjoâs past reputation and his current struggles. Once seen as a symbol of grit, leadership, and commitment, he now finds himself under immense scrutiny. His red card didnât just change a match â it may have reshaped Barcelonaâs entire season.
What comes next is uncertain. Will Flick drop him? Will Barcelona listen to transfer offers? Can AraĂșjo regain confidence and rebuild trust with the team and supporters?
One thing is certain: GĂ©rard PiquĂ© has shifted the spotlight squarely onto Ronald AraĂșjo â and with Barcelonaâs season teetering, the pressure on the defender has never been greater.