Araujo Returns to Barcelona Training

Ronald Araujo returned to Barcelona training on Monday morning, becoming the first player back from the 2026 World Cup to join the preparations for the new season, following his recovery from the injury he sustained before the tournament began.

According to Spanish newspaper "Sport," the Uruguayan defender will begin gradual training with fitness coaches, having missed all of Uruguay's matches in the World Cup despite regaining fitness before the knockout stages.

Araujo returns after a difficult season on a personal level, having been sidelined for a period due to mental health issues, before resuming his appearances during the final phase of the season.

Barcelona's captain hopes to regain his starting place in coach Hans Flick's lineup, facing strong competition for the center-back position following Andreas Christensen's contract renewal, alongside Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin, and Alvaro Cortes.

Sport newspaper added that Araujo also has the option to participate in the full-back position, having played this role in several matches last season.

The newspaper reported that Flick will hold meetings with several players from the team, including Araujo, to determine their roles ahead of the season's start, while continuing to rely on the principle of merit in selecting the starting lineup.