Barcelona qualified for the Champions League semi-finals, but with a performance far below the level expected of a title-contending team. Despite a 4-0 win in the first leg, the 3-1 loss in Dortmund raised concerns in the Catalan dressing room, with everyone beginning to draw uncomfortable conclusions about what lies ahead.
The match at Signal Iduna Park served as a real wake-up call. A strong, ambitious Borussia Dortmund side outclassed Barcelona in many phases of the game, putting Hansi Flick’s team in a difficult position. Although qualification was secured thanks to the comfortable result in the first leg, the performance in Germany did not go unnoticed.
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According to El Nacional, a Spanish newspaper, Ronald Araújo was one of the players most heavily criticized after the quarter-final clash. The Uruguayan defender, who has struggled to regain his top form this season, committed several errors that negatively impacted the team’s performance. His slow ball control, weak duels, and lack of concentration in defensive coverage sparked unexpected discontent within the squad.
Several team leaders reportedly voiced their concerns about Araújo’s form and informed Flick that they no longer see him as a reliable option in high-stakes matches. They emphasized the need to rely on the more consistent duo currently in form: Iñigo Martínez and Pau Cubarsí.
The combination of Iñigo Martínez’s experience and Pau Cubarsí’s brilliance has convinced both Flick and the team. The chemistry between the two is evident, providing stability in build-up play and strengthening the backline. In contrast, Araújo has struggled to develop that same connection with any teammate throughout the season.
No one questions Araújo’s talent or commitment, but the high standards of the Champions League leave no room for compromises. Despite the deep respect he holds within the dressing room, many believe that his continued role as a starter could come at a significant cost.
The pressure on Flick was evident, and he hinted after the match that tactical changes and personnel adjustments would be made going forward. Though he avoided naming anyone specifically, his message regarding recurring errors in certain positions was unmistakably clear.
As a result, the sentiment in the dressing room was also clear: Araújo should no longer be starting in the most important matches. It’s not personal it’s about elite-level football. At this stage, there’s no room for emotion. The priority now is to avoid repeating the mistakes made in Dortmund, because next time, there may be no chance for redemption.
