Barcelona defender set for an early start on pre-season preparations amid future speculations | OneFootball

Ronald Araujo is back in Barcelona after spending a few weeks on holiday in his native Uruguay.

During this period, the Uruguayan international also married his long-time partner, Abigail Olivera.

But it appears Araujo is done with his holidays and is set to return to Barcelona to get an early head start ahead of next season’s preparations.

Ronald Araujo to return early

While Hansi Flick has called up all Barcelona players to training on July 13, Araujo is set to return early.

As reported by Mundo Deportivo, the centre-back has already informed the club of his intention to begin individual preparations two weeks earlier.

After a physically demanding season marred by injuries, Araujo wants to get ahead and be in top shape for the start of Flick’s pre-season regime.

The Uruguayan also sent a strong message to fans via social media, posting a photo from the plane with a Barça-branded mate kettle and the caption: “We’re returning home with our batteries recharged.”

Source: Instagram

This serves as a clear statement of intent from the Uruguayan international, who is ready to fight for his place in the team.

It must be noted that Barcelona sporting director Deco has recently admitted that the club must sell one centre-back this summer in order to free up salary space.

Araujo is viewed as one of the potential candidates, as his release clause will reduce to €65 million for the first 10 days of July, giving European clubs an opportunity to sign him.

However, it appears Araujo has no desire to leave Barcelona and is ready to compete with the likes of Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez for a place in the starting eleven next season.