The pressure of playing for a European giant, drastic criticism for even simple slip-ups and constant scrutiny from the media make life complicated for any player who joins Barcelona.
Add to that the toxic environment in the administration and the uncertainty from all fronts and one can understand why players are fed up with the board and the situation in Catalonia.
A recent report from Alex Pintanel brings to light how the toxic environment has impacted players in the dressing room with special emphasis on one of the captains.
The Ronald Araujo case
As revealed by the journalist, many players in the Barcelona dressing room are mentally worn out, one of whom is Ronald Araujo.
The Uruguayan superstar is very happy in Catalonia and believes in the sporting project, yet, is uncertain about his future considering the mental and psychological toll it has taken on him.
Constant criticism, especially after his mistake against PSG in the UEFA Champions League, has forced him to reconsider his decision to stay at Barcelona multiple times.
Neither Araujo nor his family wish to leave the comfort of Catalonia, but if the player chooses to part ways with the club anyway, it will be owing to the massive psychological wear he has suffered.
Yet to respond
The 25-year-old defender’s current contract with Barcelona runs until the summer of 2026, and the club have been trying to secure a renewal for a long time now.
Despite having the proposal on his table, however, Araujo is yet to respond to the offer and it is clear that he is vacillating over committing his future to the club.
It remains to be seen if Hansi Flick’s appointment influences Araujo’s decision in any way, but the fact that his dilemma is related to mental fatigue suggests that he could well be on his way out of the club, with Chelsea and Man United keen.
