The Spanish newspaper 'Sport' reported that the participation of Uruguayan defender Ronald Araujo in Barcelona's match against Athletic Bilbao has become almost unlikely, amid doubts surrounding his physical and technical readiness.

According to the report, questions also remain about Araujo's possibility of joining the final match of the Spanish Super Cup, if Barcelona qualifies.

The newspaper explained that the main purpose of Araujo traveling with the team's delegation to Saudi Arabia is to provide him with moral support and his presence as a leader within the group, rather than being a ready option to participate on the field.

Araujo has been absent from Barcelona's squad since his sending off in the match against Chelsea last November, after which he entered a difficult psychological state that affected his continuity, causing his absence from the fields throughout the past period.

The coaching staff hopes to gradually restore Araujo, both mentally and physically.