Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has confirmed that Ronald Araújo will personally decide when he is ready to return to competitive action, as the club continues a careful and player-led recovery process.
Flick explained that while the Uruguayan defender has resumed training, there will be no pressure placed on him ahead of key fixtures, including the upcoming Catalan derby against Espanyol, which was previewed by SoftFootball.
Barcelona are focused on maintaining their recent momentum in the league, but Flick made it clear Araújo’s wellbeing comes first. Araújo returned to the Ciutat Esportiva on December 29 and has completed four training sessions with the first team.
Despite this progress, Flick stressed that the final call rests entirely with the player in a post shared by Fabrizio Romano on his official X account.
Fabrizio Romano posted:
Hansi Flick: Ronald Araujo will be the one deciding when he comes back, when he feels ready.
His teammates are supporting him.
The German coach noted that Araújo is not yet at full physical sharpness but is moving in the right direction, with strong backing from teammates and staff. Flick also reiterated that the club remains open to reinforcing the defence during the January window, depending on how Araújo’s situation develops.
The centre back’s absence followed a difficult period that began with a red card during Barcelona’s Champions League defeat to Chelsea on November 25. That night proved a turning point, as intense criticism followed the loss.
What was initially described as a short illness later became an extended break, with the club granting Araújo time away to focus on his mental wellbeing. During his time off, Araújo took deliberate steps to reset emotionally and mentally. Reports revealed that the 26-year-old travelled to Israel, visiting Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, using the period for reflection and recovery.
Sources close to the club believe the break has helped him regain balance after weeks of pressure and anxiety that built up following the Champions League exit. Although Barcelona face a demanding schedule and defensive shortages, Flick has ruled Araújo out of an immediate return against Espanyol.
The message from the club is consistent and calm. Araújo will return only when he feels ready in both body and mind, supported fully by his teammates, coaching staff, and club leadership as Barcelona take a long-term view on one of their most important defenders.
