Barcelona’s treble hopes came to a crushing end at the hands of Inter Milan, in a match that highlighted the harsh realities of football. Despite a performance that many felt deserved more, it was Inter — the less dominant side throughout the knockout rounds — who progressed, leaving Barcelona devastated.
After a tense 4–3 aggregate defeat, defensive lapses at key moments shattered Barcelona’s dream of reaching the Champions League final. The fallout has been swift and emotional, with fierce criticism surfacing from within the football community.
In a stunning revelation, club legend and former captain Lionel Messi publicly singled out Ronald Araujo as one of the key reasons for Barcelona’s elimination. Speaking bluntly, Messi said:
“Araujo ruined Barcelona’s season. I had warned him before, and Flick made a big mistake choosing him over someone more reliable. In the end, the team paid the price.”
Araujo, who replaced Iñigo Martínez in the second half, struggled badly, contributing to the two late goals that sealed Barcelona’s fate. His performance was labeled as disastrous, and Messi wasn’t done pointing fingers.
The Argentine icon also criticized Hansi Flick’s decision to bench Andreas Christensen, a defender who had consistently delivered strong performances. According to Messi:
“Christensen should have played. He was in form and better suited for a match of this magnitude.”
Flick’s choice to favor Araujo over Christensen has drawn backlash, especially given Christensen’s solid recent displays, including against Valladolid. Many now view that selection as a critical misstep that contributed to Barcelona’s dramatic Champions League exit.
Messi’s candid remarks reflect the deep frustration rippling through the club and its supporters. With the season derailed, questions are being raised about coaching decisions and squad management — signaling the need for serious reflection as Barcelona plans its next steps.
