Barcelona defender in the final phase of recovery, comeback not far away | OneFootball

Barcelona have been without their captain and key defender Ronald Araujo for more than three months now following an injury sustained whilst representing Uruguay in the Copa America back in July.

The centre-back has been working extremely hard on his recovery and rehabilitation and a return is said to be edging closer, although there have been some contradicting reports about his comeback.

Indeed, earlier in the week, it was suggested that Araujo would be back next month but on Wednesday night, fresh reports emerged claiming he will not return until December.

Another update

However, now, AS has come forward with a fresh update which is in line with the reports from earlier in the week.

Indeed, as per the report Araujo is nearing his return having entered the final phase of his recovery from injury.

Araujo has been out since July. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

Barcelona’s medical team now anticipates his comeback after the November international break, a more optimistic timeline than initial projections which suggested he might not feature until after Christmas.

A key player in the squad, despite not playing this season, Araujo has maintained his influential role within the squad.

The captain has organised a team bonding lunch this Wednesday with players and staff at a venue near Barcelona, demonstrating his commitment to fostering team unity even from the sidelines.

Competition for Places

Araujo’s determination to contribute to the team remains evident, though reclaiming his starting position in central defence appears more challenging than ever, given the impressive early-season performances of Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez.

So, it will be up to him to convince Hansi Flick to dislodge one of the two current starting defenders and reinstate him into the starting XI, once he returns to full fitness.