Barcelona captain begins pre-season training earlier than his teammates amidst exit rumours | OneFootball

According to SPORT, Barcelona captain Ronald Araujo has already started his pre-season preparations by training individually before the rest of the squad returns.

The Uruguayan defender is highly motivated for the new season and knows Hansi Flick considers him an important part of the team.

After a tough campaign last year, Araujo is determined to start strong and avoid the struggles he faced after recovering from his injury.

Last season was challenging for Araujo. He missed a long period due to injury and could not match the level of his teammates when he came back.

By then, Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez had locked down the starting spots in central defence.

Araujo only managed to return to action in January 2025. From there, he worked his way back into Flick’s plans, as the German coach values Araujo’s unique defensive qualities compared to the rest of the squad.

During the same January, despite strong interest from Juventus in signing him, Araujo signed a contract extension with Barcelona until 2031.

Ronald Araujo is committed to Barcelona. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

However, the new deal included a clause that could allow him to leave this summer, since his release fee became more affordable for Europe’s top clubs starting July 1.

Araujo is committed to Barcelona

As the new season draws near, Araujo’s commitment is unquestionable. He has made it clear he wants to start the preseason on the same level as his teammates.

To achieve this, he returned early from his holidays and has been in Barcelona for several days, focusing on his fitness.

He trains daily at home, where he has his own gym, and follows a personalised program created by the club’s physical trainers.

Araujo is determined not just to talk about his commitment, but to show it with action. His hard work proves he wants to be a key player in Flick’s second year in charge of the team.

He has repeatedly shared his excitement about the project, and now he’s backing it up with serious dedication. If his efforts pay off, Araujo could reclaim a starting role and once again become a pillar in Barcelona’s defence.