Despite a string of victories and solid results, Barcelona’s coaching staff, led by Hansi Flick, are grappling with a delicate issue that has quietly unsettled the dressing room.
Winning matches has not masked the defensive shortcomings that continue to surface. Gaps at the back have made certain games far more complicated than they should have been, raising concerns among management and fans alike.
What’s most surprising is not the overall team performance, but the scrutiny now falling on a specific player who was once considered untouchable.
In matches that should have been under control, defensive errors nearly turned into disasters. The debate grew louder following remarks from goalkeeper Juan Garcia, who stirred controversy when he admitted his “confidence in some defenders has become nonexistent,” hinting at a clear lack of trust in one particular teammate.
That player is Ronald Araújo. Once hailed as the backbone of Barcelona’s defense, the Uruguayan is struggling to live up to that reputation. His issues go beyond lapses in positioning; his limited role in build-up play and a tendency to make rash decisions under pressure have increasingly worried the staff.
According to Garcia’s assessment, Araújo is now viewed as more of a liability than an asset, often disrupting the defensive structure instead of reinforcing it. By contrast, Garcia has openly shown a preference for lining up behind Pau Cubarsí.
The young Spaniard has displayed remarkable composure, tactical discipline, and the authority to organize the backline—even in the toughest fixtures. His maturity has already secured him a pivotal role in Flick’s plans for both domestic and European competitions.
Still, Cubarsí cannot carry the defense alone. To complement his qualities, Flick is considering Andreas Christensen and Eric Garcia as steadier options than Araújo.
Insiders reveal that Flick has already launched a thorough review of his defensive setup, with a bold move on the horizon: Araújo may soon be dropped from the starting XI in key matches.
It’s a harsh call for a player of his stature, but Flick understands that defensive trust isn’t earned by reputation—it comes from consistency and balance. And right now, Araújo is falling short on both fronts.
