Soccer News Soccer Match Reports, Football News
Following the end of the third international break of the new season, FC Barcelona are set to resume their campaign on Saturday as they take on Rayo Vallecano.
However, heading into this game, the club have faced a myriad of setbacks, including Gavi’s long-term ACL injury that has forced Xavi to train a host of youngsters this week.
Another player who picked up a knock during the international break was Marc-Andre ter Stegen. Xavi confirmed today that the German won’t be a part of tomorrow’s clash.
Ronald Araujo set to captain vs Rayo Vallecano
Ter Stegen’s absence against Rayo Vallecano should pave the way for Inaki Pena to prove himself in between the sticks.
But another young player, who could receive an exciting opportunity in the wake of Ter Stegen’s absence is Ronald Araujo.
According to AS, the Uruguayan international is set to captain the Barcelona team as they take on Rayo Vallecano this weekend.
Araujo to replace ter Stegen as captain vs Rayo Vallecano (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
Araujo will wear the armband and lead the team out to the pitch for the first time ever, in the absence of Ter Stegen and Sergi Roberto, who might be available on Tuesday against FC Porto.
A glorious opportunity for Araujo?
It is no secret that Barcelona rate Ronald Araujo quite highly, not just as a defender but also as a leader.
The 24-year-old was named the third captain this season, behind Roberto and Ter Stegen, following the departures of Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba.
Saturday’s contest against Rayo Vallecano, therefore, will come as an opportunity for the Uruguayan international to prove himself as a leader.
Araujo will have the chance to lead a team chock-full of experienced stars like Robert Lewandowski and Inigo Martinez. His performance, therefore, could prove to be critical.
In the meantime, Xavi is hopeful of having both Ter Stegen and Roberto back in action on Tuesday, when the team takes on FC Porto in the UEFA Champions League.
Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/barcelona-defender-set-to-captain-the-team-for-the-first-time-vs-rayo-vallecano/
Author : Connell Edgar-Jones
Publish date : 2023-11-24 18:05:49
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.
