Anxious moments for Hansi Flick and Barcelona as star player’s injury status in question

As reported by SPORT, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is deeply concerned about the recovery timeline for Araujo’s injury. 

This is because the coach counts on Araujo for the next season and despite interest from other clubs, he is adamant about including the defender in his plans.

It must be noted that Uruguay wrapped up their Copa America journey by clinching third place after a tense penalty shootout victory over Canada. 

Now, all eyes are fixed on the return of Araujo at Barcelona, awaiting detailed updates on the severity of his injury sustained during the quarter-final clash with Brazil.

There’s no update from Uruguay

It has been a full week since the defender’s unfortunate mishap and although Barcelona hoped Araujo would swiftly return to undergo treatment from their medical staff, he opted to remain with his national team, forging camaraderie with his teammates at their training camp.

Uruguay have not provided an update on Ronald Araujo since his injury. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

The ambiguity surrounding Araujo’s condition persists within the Uruguayan camp. Reports from their medical team have only confirmed a muscle injury without specifying its nature or estimating a recovery timeframe. They cited ongoing inflammation hindering a definitive diagnosis.

Barcelona and Flick are anxious

Meanwhile, anxiety mounts at Barcelona amid fears of the worst-case scenario. According to reports, Araujo may be sidelined for at least six weeks with a hamstring tear, jeopardising his participation in pre-season preparations and potentially the first two league fixtures.

Barcelona continue to await Araujo’s return to conduct a thorough medical assessment before allowing him to commence his offseason break. 

Given the late finish of Uruguay’s match against Canada, Araujo’s arrival in Barcelona isn’t expected until Monday, after an extensive journey back.

The club’s immediate priority is for Araujo to undergo examinations at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper and to introduce him to their new coach. As for Flick, he is eager to integrate Araujo into his plans, is keenly interested in understanding the recovery timeline. 

His commitment to Araujo’s role extends beyond the player’s popularity among Europe’s elite clubs and the uncertainties of the transfer market.