Barcelona captain Araujo returns to club after spiritual awakening

Barcelona captain Ronald Araujo has returned to the club following a short personal trip to Israel that was sanctioned to help him regain emotional balance.

The Uruguayan defender had travelled in search of calm after a recent unsettling episode with a high-profile error against Chelsea.

Araujo’s visit to Israel saw the deeply religious centre-back spend time at spiritual and cultural sites in Tel Aviv, seeking clarity and inner peace.

The request for leave was communicated to Barcelona through his representatives, who met sporting director Deco last week to explain the need for personal recovery time.

Head coach Hansi Flick and the club hierarchy immediately approved the trip, placing the player’s mental and emotional well-being above footballing concerns.

Flick later addressed the situation briefly, describing it as a “private” matter and reiterating Barcelona’s commitment to supporting their players beyond the pitch.

Although Araujo has now returned to Barcelona, the club are in no rush to reintegrate him into first-team activities.

He is not expected to resume training anytime soon, with Barcelona allowing him additional time to fully reset before taking on competitive responsibilities again.

The club’s handling of the situation reflects a growing emphasis on mental health and empathy, particularly for senior figures like Araujo, whose leadership and professionalism remain highly valued.

Barcelona have expressed full confidence in their captain and are prepared to give him as much time as necessary before his eventual return to action.