Official, Ronald Araújo can't avoid it, his no. 1 rival signs with Barça until 2031

Rumors about Ronald Araújo are once again circulating strongly in the Barça environment regarding his possible departure in January. Last season, he was already close to leaving during the winter transfer window, but his move to Juventus fell through at the last moment. Let's remember that the Uruguayan center-back had a leading role under Xavi Hernández, but since his injury at Copa América last summer, his performance hasn't been the same.

In the previous season, Hansi Flick opted for the Cubarsí-Iñigo Martínez duo. Meanwhile, Ronald Araújo had to settle for waiting for his opportunity on the bench, and the truth is that when he got to play, he showed more shadows than lights. His mistake against Inter Milan in the Champions League semifinals still causes nightmares in the Catalan capital.

Ronald Araújo's future takes another radical turn

This season, Ronald Araújo started as a starter alongside Pau Cubarsí, but at the first sign of change, he was relegated to the bench. In some matches, Eric García moved from right back to take the starting spot in the center of defense. Hansi Flick shows, once again with this decision, how little trust he currently has in the Uruguayan center-back.

Given this scenario, rumors coming from England point to interest from some teams like Liverpool in acquiring Ronald Araújo's services. His continuity at FC Barcelona is by no means guaranteed, so it's likely that he will receive interesting offers this summer. Even more so considering that his competition, Eric García, will renew until 2031 in the coming days.

Eric García's renewal

Eric García's situation is completely opposite to Ronald Araújo's: his role in the team has grown to the point where he has Hansi Flick's full trust. Last season, he barely counted for the German coach during the first few months, but Eric didn't give up. He took advantage of his moment when he had the opportunity, and his great performances earned him the role of Flick's wildcard.

He replaced Koundé when he was injured, performing at a very high level, and at the start of this season, he has been a starter in the first four matchdays. His versatility and commitment are beyond any doubt, so the club has already started working on his renewal. Eric García's contract ends in 2026, but both parties agree to sign a new deal that would link him until 2031 and would greatly complicate Ronald Araújo's future.