The FC Barcelona is experiencing very positive prospects regarding the return to action of one of their key defenders, Ronald Araújo, who has been sidelined since July 7th. In that match between Brazil and Uruguay, in the Copa America quarter-finals, the Rivera native suffered a hamstring injury in his right leg that required surgery on July 22nd. A recovery time of between four and five months was estimated, which has almost been completed.
Although an exact date for his return has not been established, Hansi Flick mentioned that Ronald Araújo is "improving, almost ready", suggesting that his return to the field could be imminent, especially considering that the '4' is training with increasing intensity and appears physically impeccable. So, when can we expect to see the Uruguayan back in action?
Apparently, Ronald Araújo will have to wait at least one more week before being called up again by Barcelona. He is not expected to be available for the match against Real Betis at the Benito Villamarín next Saturday, December 7th. Although the defender seems recovered and has participated in a training match with positive feedback, the Barça squad prefers him to accumulate more quality training sessions with the group.
Considering that Barcelona had a midweek match against RCD Mallorca (1-5) last Tuesday, the training sessions leading up to the Real Betis clash will be less intense, likely focused on recovery. Therefore, Hansi Flick deems it more appropriate to leave Ronald Araújo out of the trip to Seville this weekend.
The date when Ronald Araújo could return to FC Barcelona's squad
In this context, it seems that Ronald Araújo could have more opportunities to return to the FC Barcelona squad in the sixth matchday of the UEFA Champions League against Borussia Dortmund at Signal Iduna Park on Wednesday, December 11th. However, it is unlikely that he will see action, considering the solid center-back pairing of Iñigo Martínez and Pau Cubarsí.
Furthermore, if not called up for the match against Borussia Dortmund, Ronald Araújo could have the opportunity to return in the game against CD Leganés in LaLiga EA Sports on December 15th. Depending on how the match unfolds, it could be a good opportunity for the Uruguayan to get minutes and gradually reintegrate into Barcelona's competitive rhythm after being sidelined for five months due to injury.