Barcelona star could come back from injury vs Celta Vigo, club unwilling to rush return

Earlier this week, reports suggested that Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo was in the final phase of his recovery from injury.

Having sustained a thigh issue early in the season, the 24-year-old has missed the last three league matches against Cadiz, Villarreal, and Osasuna.

But it was indicated that Araujo was a matter of days away from return and could be ready to come back in the UEFA Champions League opener against Royal Antwerp.

Barcelona not risking relapse

However, a fresh report from SPORT is claiming that Barcelona do not wish to rush Araujo’s return and risk a relapse.

As such, his return in the game against Real Betis right after the international break has been ruled out while the Royal Antwerp clash could also come soon.

The report thus states that even though a fixed date has not been set for Araujo’s comeback, the La Liga clash against Celta Vigo on September 23 could be when the Uruguayan international makes his return.

A key member of the team, Araujo’s return will come as a big boost for Xavi although it will also pose a selection challenge for him in defence.

Araujo’s injury history

The 24-year-old has been a permanent fixture in the side under Xavi when fit and available, but in his fledgling career, Araujo has had to deal with several injury problems already.

Indeed, since being promoted to the first-team at Barça, the Uruguayan international has suffered 14 injuries and has been sidelined for 272 days as a result.

Araujo as well as Pedri’s recurring injuries have become a matter of some concern at Barcelona.

As such, it makes sense for Xavi & co. to not rush Araujo back and make sure that he is fully match fit and ready before making his comeback.