Barcelona centre-back well-respected in the Real Madrid dressing room

Ronald Araujo’s value to the Barcelona defence was once again evident when the defender put out yet another strong display during midweek’s game against Real Madrid.

Operating at right-back, Araujo produced a solid display, making life difficult for Vinicius Junior. The Brazilian indeed had no breathing room on the flanks and had no chance to cause problems in the Barça backline.

However, according to a report from MARCA, Araujo, despite his prominence in the Barcelona setup, is a well-respected figure even in the Real Madrid camp.

This is because the defender is considered a well-respected professional, who most notably defended Alvaro Rodriguez during the midweek contest.

When Rodriquez, a youngster with virtually no experience in professional football, collided with Marc-Andre ter Stegen, all the Barcelona played tried to harrow him by charging towards the youngster.

Araujo, though, urged his teammates to not hassle the young attacker and physically defended him against his own set of mates. The gesture was appreciated by the Real Madrid players.

Even apart from his gesture towards Rodriguez, Araujo is respected highly in Madrid as he has previously defended Vinicius Junior, especially against the racist chants the Brazilian has received throughout the course of the campaign.

In addition, the Uruguayan international also watches videos of Sergio Ramos. He is, in fact, a huge admirer of the former Real Madrid superstar and bases his game a lot, around the style of the veteran centre-back, who is currently plying his trade for Paris Saint-Germain.

These are the reasons that put Araujo in a good light, in front of Real Madrid players and supporters alike. From a sporting perspective, though, Araujo has been a real thorn in the side for Los Blancos, and his presence in the Barça backline will once again be crucial when the reigning Spanish champions take on Barça in La Liga later this month.