“Araujo Remains Unavailable: Barcelona Unveils 21-Man Squad for Inaugural Champions League Fixture”

Barcelona is gearing up for their highly anticipated first Champions League encounter of the season, where they will face off against Royal Antwerp, the Belgian underdogs. In preparation for this crucial clash, Barca has unveiled a formidable 21-man squad that will be donning the Blaugrana colors on their home turf.

The complete 21-man squad comprises an array of talented players, each eager to make their mark on the European stage. However, there are some notable omissions and inclusions that merit attention.

Despite a glimmer of hope with his return to full training, Barcelona’s head coach, Xavi Hernandez, has opted to err on the side of caution by not including the robust defender Ronald Araujo in the squad. This decision underscores the importance of ensuring that Araujo is fully fit before making a return to competitive action, prioritizing his long-term well-being over immediate needs.

Additionally, the absence of Pedri from the squad continues to be a cause for concern. The gifted midfielder is currently on the road to recovery from a muscle injury, and the coaching staff has decided to exercise patience in his rehabilitation process. Pedri’s absence is certainly felt, as his creativity and composure in the midfield have been integral to Barcelona’s recent successes.

The composition of the 21-man squad is a testament to the depth and versatility of the Barcelona squad. As they embark on their Champions League journey, they will rely on the collective efforts of the players at their disposal to secure a positive result against Royal Antwerp. The absence of Araujo and Pedri will undoubtedly be felt, but Barcelona remains determined to make a statement in this prestigious competition, beginning with this inaugural fixture.