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The importance of Barcelona’s comeback win over Porto cannot be understated. After all, the manager talked extensively about the weak mentality in the dressing room ahead of the clash, and a win at such a stage comes as an invaluable boost.
Having won their UEFA Champions League clash against the Portuguese outfit, Xavi’s men now stare Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid in the eye. Los Rojiblancos currently sit on level points with Barcelona, albeit with a game in hand.
A defeat tomorrow could potentially leave the hosts six points behind the Madrid-based entity and out of the title race.
Ronald Araujo voices his opinion
Over the years, Barcelona defender and leader Ronald Araujo has become Xavi’s mainstay at right-back for the big nights. In fact, of his 12 appearances this season, five have come in the right-back position.
Having played against Porto as a full-back and starred, Araujo is expected to continue in the same role tomorrow against Atleti.
Speaking about his ability to play in two positions during an interview with BeIN Sports (h/t SPORT), however, he made his preference clear saying: “I don’t like to play as a right-back, I prefer playing as a centre-back.”
Ahead of the massive fixture against Atletico Madrid, Araujo emphasised the importance of defensive stability on the night, especially pointing out the form of two Rojiblanco forwards.
“Against Atletico, we will face a very strong and organized team. Griezmann and Morata are in excellent form and we must be careful of them.”
However, he disagreed with the general belief that the two upcoming clashes against Atletico Madrid and Girona would make or break Barcelona’s hunt to defend their title.
“The Atletico and Girona matches are very important, but I think losing points does not mean anything. The league is still long,” he added.
Barcelona through and through
Ronald Araujo’s leadership on the field has come a long way, and it is clear that he is the most vocal of any…
Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/barcelona-defender-makes-position-clear-on-makeshift-role-in-xavis-team-i-dont-like-it/
Author : Adithya Eshwarla
Publish date : 2023-12-02 11:01:45
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