‘I dislike playing at right back’ - Araujo sends message to Xavi

Barcelona and Uruguay defender Ronald Araujo (IMAGO)

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Barcelona and Uruguay defender Ronald Araujo (IMAGO)

‘I dislike playing at right back’ - Araujo sends message to Xavi

Kolawole Babatunde 15:02 - 02.12.2023

FC Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo has sent a message to head coach Xavi Hernandez about his preferred position in the team.

Araujo is a center-back by default, but he can also be used at right back in crucial matches, such as in the El Clasico against Real Madrid, when Xavi thinks he can stop deadly left wingers like Vinicius Junior.

However, the Uruguay international recently revealed in an interview with beIN Sports that he does not enjoy playing on the right side of the defence.

Araujo reveals his preferred position 

Ronald Araujo in action against Getafe
Ronald Araujo in action against Getafe || Credit: @Barcacentre/X

Speaking ahead of Sunday's must-win La Liga clash against Atletico Madrid, the 24-year-old defender said, "I don't like to play as a right back, but as a centre back [instead]."

However, Jules Kounde played right back most times in the previous season; however, this season, the roles are flipped.

When Barca played Porto in the Champions League on Tuesday, Araujo took on the role that he does not particularly enjoy, but it helped the team win 2-1 and advance to the knockout stage for the first time since 2021.

Araujo could again start at right-back this weekend

Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are tied on 31 points going into Sunday's match.

According to several sources, the Uruguayan could again start on the right side of defence to contain Atleti’s dangerous left-winger, Samuel Lino, and the 24-year-old understands how "strong and organised" Diego Simeone’s team can be. 

"Antoine Griezmann and [Alvaro] Morata are in excellent condition, and we have to be careful," Araujo said.

Barcelona host Atletico Madrid on Sunday evening, with both teams tied at 31 points, four points behind Real Madrid and Girona, who occupy the top two spots in La Liga. 

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