Ronald Araujo opens up on his future after making Barcelona comeback

Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo has ended any doubts about his future by declaring that the Camp Nou is the only place he wants to be, after returning to action following a mental-health break that forced him to confront anxiety and depression.

The 24-year-old centre-back, who has spent almost his entire professional career in Catalonia, told Mundo Deportivo that he now “feels completely different” and is ready to help the club chase major honours again.

“I’m clear about it. Barcelona is my home. The city is my home. The club is my home,” Araujo said. “I’ve spent almost my entire professional life here. I feel very comfortable, valued by the club and the fans.”

Araujo revealed that stepping away from football was necessary to address the psychological toll the sport had taken on him, but he now views the experience as a turning point. “I understand that there are two worlds, a real world and a virtual world,” he explained. “And in the real world, I feel the support of the fans, the Barça supporters, and the club. That’s very important. I’m really eager to succeed here and win the important titles we all want.”

His return comes at a pivotal moment for Barcelona, who have been linked with summer reinforcements at centre-back. Yet with Araujo back in the fold and Andreas Christensen reportedly close to an extension, sporting-decision makers appear to have shifted their immediate priority toward securing a top-class centre-forward.

Araujo’s reintegration is expected to provide a timely boost ahead of Thursday’s match, with Hansi Flick calling up 22 players for the fixture. The Uruguayan’s renewed focus and mental resilience could prove as valuable as any new signing as the club plots a route back to domestic and European glory.