Barcelona defender reveals his preferred position after national team return

Barcelona star Ronald Araujo made his sublime return to the Uruguay national team this week, featuring in an international friendly against Colombia.

This was the defender’s first appearance for the national team in 13 months. The player had last played for the Uruguayan team in September 2022.

Needless to say, Araujo produced an impressive performance in the centre-back role, helping Uruguay draw 2-2 against a tricky Colombia side.

However, shortly after the game, Araujo talked about his preferred position for the Uruguayan national team, suggesting that he is open to playing any position the coach wants.

Araujo on his preferred role

A lot has changed with the Uruguayan national team since Araujo last played with the team. This included the appointment of Marcelo Bielsa as the head coach, earlier this year.

Playing under the Argentine for the first time, Araujo said he must be ready to play in a variety of roles under the former Leeds United coach.

“Marcelo, when he counts on a player, it’s not just one position, but also in more positions. I still don’t know which position I’ll play in, full-back, centre-back, but I’m available,” he said, as quoted by SPORT.

“Obviously, I feel more comfortable playing in the middle of defence…”

Araujo is expected to feature in the next game against Brazil as well, and it will be interesting to see how Bielsa plans to utilise his services against the Selecao.

Araujo’s season ahead at Barcelona

While his role at the Uruguay national team remains unresolved due to a dearth of options in the defensive positions, Araujo’s role at Barcelona is pretty much fixed.

The 24-year-old is predominantly considered as a centre-back at Camp Nou, though he has been considered for the right-back role multiple times over the past 12 months.

For this season, Araujo has played in only four matches due to injury. But he has largely featured as a centre-back since returning from injury.

The Uruguayan international is expected to play a crucial role as Barcelona look to keep up with Real Madrid for the league title while breaking their curse in the UEFA Champions League.