Ronald Araujo Requests Mental Health Break as Barcelona Provide Full Support for Their Captain

Barcelona captain and defensive leader Ronald Araujo is currently going through one of the most challenging periods of his career. The 26-year-old centre-back has been struggling mentally and emotionally since receiving a red card in last week’s match against Chelsea—an incident that became the tipping point in a situation that had been building for weeks.

Araujo was absent from Barcelona’s league match against Alaves last weekend and has already been ruled out of the team’s crucial upcoming fixture against Atletico Madrid. Initially, there was optimism that he might return for the match against Real Betis, but recent updates suggest a completely different scenario.

Araujo Officially Asks for Time Away to Recover His Mental State

According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, Araujo has formally requested time off to focus on recovering his mental and psychological well-being. The pressure, expectations, and emotional load he has carried in recent months have taken a toll, prompting him to seek a temporary break from competitive action.

Barcelona immediately accepted his request without setting a strict timeline for his return, emphasizing that his long-term health and stability are far more important than rushing him back into the squad.

Araujo is widely respected at the club for his discipline, professionalism, and commitment. Whether he is benched, deployed out of position, or asked to shoulder unusual responsibilities—such as when Hansi Flick briefly utilized him as an emergency forward—he has always put the team first.
This dedication, however, has also contributed to the emotional burden he now feels.

Both the club and the player agree that stepping back for a short period is the healthiest choice for him and for Barcelona.

Physical Condition Not a Concern — Focus Is Entirely on Mental Recovery

Despite his mental struggles, Araujo’s physical condition is reported to be excellent. His current absence from training and matches is not related to injury, but purely to ensure his psychological well-being returns to optimal levels.

Barcelona understand that mental health recovery cannot be tied to a fixed deadline. They have therefore given Araujo complete freedom to take the time he needs to feel stable, grounded, and ready to compete again at the highest level.

Barcelona Stand Firmly Behind Their Captain

Barcelona have shown full solidarity with Araujo throughout this difficult period. The club has provided him with complete access to:

Psychological support
Personal counseling resources
Mental health professionals
A stress-free environment without any competitive pressure

Club president Joan Laporta has already expressed public support, while sporting director Deco and head coach Hansi Flick have stood firmly by Araujo’s side.

His family and representatives are also involved, offering emotional strength as he navigates this challenging chapter. In fact, his agent met with Deco earlier today to discuss the player’s situation and the club’s continued support structure.

The Barcelona dressing room has also rallied around their captain, fully aware that Araujo is a key figure not only on the pitch but also inside the locker room. Teammates have encouraged him to take the time necessary to return stronger.

Araujo’s Focus: Heal Mentally, Return Stronger Than Ever

For now, Araujo’s priority is to regain emotional stability and shed the anxiety he has been carrying. His intention is to return to the team refreshed, confident, and mentally stronger—ready to lead Barcelona through the challenges that lie ahead.

The club, the fans, and his teammates are standing with him through this recovery, recognizing that even top athletes face mental battles that deserve understanding and support.

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