- Ronald Araujo had a rare start at right back for FC Barcelona against Rayo Vallecano on Sunday.
- To top off a strong performance all round, the Uruguayan scored the only goal of the game to give his team all three points in a scrappy 1-0 win.
- The victory guaranteed that Barça went seven points clear of Real Madrid ahead of them playing the derby against Atletico.
Ronald Araujo received a huge boost of confidence by being the man of the hour and scoring FC Barcelona’s only goal in 1-0 win over Rayo Vallecano on Sunday afternoon.
Later, to 3Cat, the Uruguayan said that he feels “good” after a troubling time personally and physically, and thanked Culers for their support.
With Jules Kounde and Eric Garcia both injured, head coach Hansi Flick took a punt on Araujo and fielded him at right back ahead of rising La Masia graduate Xavi Espart.
Using Araujo’s pace against fast Rayo counterattacks could have been the reason for this.
Yet perhaps further shortages on the left, with Alejandro Balde also on the sick list, helped in the German’s decision-making as Joao Cancelo got deployed there.
Yet despite Araujo being criticised for his display in the Champions League last 16 first leg 1-1 draw at St. James’ Park in that role, Flick showed confidence in one of his captains in the last fixture before the international break.
Barça were clearly off key, with members of the crowd in the Spotify Camp Nou observed by ReadBarcelona as being unpleased with the performance amid a tired Raphinha squandering easy chances.
In the end, however, it was those at the back, such as Araujo and four-save MVP hero Joan Garcia, that stepped up to the plate and brought home the victory.
Araujo stole the headlines for FC Barcelona
Whenever the Blaugrana wins a corner and Araujo is on the pitch, there are often calls of “U-ru-gayo” bellowing from the stands in anticipation that the 26-year-old will make a mark.
It was no different on Sunday every time Barça got the chance to send one in from the flag. And, on 24 minutes, Araujo didn’t disappoint them by giving his side the lead with a header at the back post as Cancelo assisted him.
There was more to say about the former Boston River man than just his goal, however.
Awarded a 7.7 rating by WhoScored?, Araujo also had 88% passing accuracy providing stability in a tough battle. He won two aerial battles as well, in addition to an important tackle.
The Uruguayan is feeling better following his break from Barça action
In the aftermath of his mental health break triggered by a red card against Chelsea in the Champions League, which played a heavy part in a 3-0 league phase defeat, Araujo seems to be in improved spirits.
“I feel very good. Physically I am good, and it is important that I can help the team in any position they need,” he stated to 3Cat post-match.
“I work hard to be able to contribute where needed, I am always available to support the team.”
On Culers and their support, Araujo stressed: “I have always felt the affection of the Barcelona fans, they always support us, and that is the most beautiful feeling a player can experience.”
Araujo clearly has his manager’s support too
In another demonstration of his fine man-management skills also seen with Lamine, Flick has handled Araujo expertly through a difficult time.
Heading off on international duty with Uruguay now, the defender does so with a much-needed boost and show of confidence from his head coach and the fans alike, which will only benefit the first team as it heads into the business end of the season.
