Araujo Substituted at Half-Time as a Precautionary Measure

A surprise unfolded at half-time at Balaídos as cameras focused on Iñigo Martínez preparing to enter the field, while Ronald Araujo remained in the locker room. Alarm bells rang just three days before the Champions League Round of 16 first-leg match.

The Uruguayan defender has been dealing with knee issues for several weeks. For instance, in the game against Alavés, he touched the affected area in the second half but continued playing. As mentioned, Araujo stayed in the dressing room, and Iñigo Martínez replaced him. Despite expectations of Iñigo partnering with Ronald, Xavi opted to continue with Cubarsí.

According to our sources, Araujo’s substitution was purely precautionary. He felt heavily loaded, and the coaching staff preferred not to take any risks, especially with the crucial match against Napoli on the horizon.

It’s worth noting that Araujo didn’t play a single minute in the recent game against Granada at Montjuïc last Sunday.