According to information from the Spanish newspaper ‘‘El Nacional‘‘, Hansi Flick has announced the starting lineup for tonight’s Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid, and it appears there will be a very difficult decision involving one of the team’s key players: Ronald Araujo will not be in the starting lineup.
The German coach had hinted in previous matches that Araujo might be included. In the match against Mallorca, Araujo started but was unconvincing. Although he did not commit any serious errors, he failed to demonstrate the decisiveness or leadership expected of him in crucial matches. In a context where every detail matters, Flick appears to have made his final decision.
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In recent years, Araujo has been a key pillar of the defense, but his performances have declined. With the rise of Pau Cubarsí and the emergence of Iñigo Martínez, the makeup of Barcelona’s defensive line has changed significantly.
Cubarsí has earned his place in the squad thanks to his impressive performances, maturity, and composure on the ball. As for Iñigo, he brings a wealth of experience and an ability to pass accurately qualities that Flick values in big matches.
On the other hand, Araujo has delivered inconsistent performances and made notable errors in critical games, which have not gone unnoticed by the coaching staff.
There is no doubt that Araujo’s exclusion from the starting lineup for the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid will come as a psychological blow. The Uruguayan has shown strong commitment and leadership for the club and has always stepped up when needed, even in a substitute role.
This decision could affect Araujo’s mental state, especially amid growing rumors about his future, with clubs such as Manchester United and Bayern Munich reportedly interested in signing him. His potential appearance as a substitute in such a high-profile final could spark further speculation.
Since taking charge, Flick has emphasized that he does not rely on reputation or past achievements, but rather on current performance. This philosophy is clearly reflected in his decision to leave Araujo on the bench.
Flick prefers players to be in peak physical condition on the pitch, and he currently believes that Cubarsí and Iñigo are the more reliable options. Moreover, the pair have developed strong chemistry and have performed well in challenging matches.
For now, the message is clear: Araujo is not in the starting lineup for the final. This is a major setback for him and underscores that no player at Barcelona is guaranteed a place in the starting eleven.
