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After sustaining an unfortunate injury during the recently concluded Copa America, Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo underwent successful surgery earlier this week.
Despite initially being considered a minor setback, the Uruguayan superstar is now sidelined for at least four months and will likely return to the field only in December.
Needless to say, his fitness setback comes as a huge blow to Hansi Flick’s plans, especially considering that he has been one of Barcelona’s most reliable defenders in recent years.
Backup option in the academy
The loss of Araujo’s services does not leave Barcelona with many options apart from turning to the academy and existing first-team players, given the club’s financial situation.
Indeed, Jules Kounde, Andreas Christensen, Pau Cubarsi, and possibly Eric Garcia will continue to be the frontrunners to occupy the central defence this season.
However, as revealed by MARCA, the management also counts on the young academy graduate Sergi Dominguez as an able candidate to serve as a deputy in the position.
Born in Barcelona, the 19-year-old joined the club in 2017 and has steadily grown up the pecking order over the years. Having renewed his contract recently, he has made his debut for the under-19 Spain team and has also played for Barça Atletic.
In Flick’s plans
Earlier this week, Flick oversaw his first game as the manager of Barcelona as his side beat UE Olot in a training friendly.
For the game, the new manager opted to deploy Dominguez alongside Inigo Martinez in central defence, transmitting his confidence in the youngster among his limited options.
The teenage star has been called up to travel with the team to the United States for pre-season.
With a golden opportunity ahead of him, the youngster will look to capitalize and earn a place in the first-team plans.
Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/ronald-araujos-injury-opens-the-door-for-19-year-old-academy-talent/
Author : Adithya Eshwarla
Publish date : 2024-07-28 13:55:55
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