FC Barcelona coach Hansi Flick defended Ronald Araujo, following the strong criticisms aroused by interior elimination in the Champions League last week. The Uruguayan came into play 15 minutes from the end, but was beaten on the equalizing goal of Inter in additional time and on the victorious goal in overtime.
Before the potential shock against Espanyol, Flick was questioned about his central defense options, taking into account the suspension of Inigo Martinez and the fright of Pau Cubarsi in training.
“Eric and Andreas can play central defenders, so we have three options. Christensen trains very well and helps us a lot when he plays. I don't like what happened with Araujo; I will always protect my players. We all make mistakes in this match. I like to defend my players, and we all make mistakes, you, me, everyone. These are things that happen. It is also a question of respect. We talked about it, and it's good. »»
“It has already happened to everyone in this position. But we have to protect it, ”said Hansi Flick.
Pablo Torre and Pau Cubarsi ready to play
“He's going well and is ready to play”, said Flick on Robert Lewandowski after the Polish striker's absence against Real Madrid. Despite a knee injury, followed by a blow received during a duel with Lewandowski, Flick confirmed that Cubarsi was able to play.
“He can play tomorrow without problem. He received a blow in training, but it is nothing. He did not finish training because he was better than he did. ”
Midfielder Pablo Torre has also been absent for the past ten days, but has resumed training and should be there against Los Pericos.
Corridor noise concerning Ronald Araujo
In January, it was reported that Araujo had asked to leave the club, Juventus having submitted an offer for the Uruguayan. He finally signed a new contract until 2031 and said he wanted to stay in Barcelona. However, as there is no sign that he finds his place as a holder, some suggest that Barcelona could give in this summer.
Its release clause is 65 million euros as soon as the transfer market is opened, and after the match against Inter, it was reported that Barcelona was worried about the form of Araujo this season. He is also one of the players for whom Barcelona will be attentive to the offers.
