Delayed Barcelona captain sparks pre‑season scheduling dilemma

Delayed Barcelona captain Ronald Araujo will miss the first week of pre‑season, arriving on July 20 after an extended FIFA World Cup leave, while the club began training on July 13 at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper. The early start puts the squad a full week ahead of its planned schedule.

FC Barcelona kicked off its official pre‑season on July 13 at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, a full week ahead of the squad’s planned schedule. On‑pitch training is set to begin on July 14, focusing on physical conditioning.

The Uruguayan centre‑back Ronald Araujo will not report until July 20, after an extended FIFA World Cup leave. His delayed return creates a timing clash with the early start.

Cadena SER, citing Carpetas FCB, reported that Araujo was granted the extended leave following his participation in the FIFA World Cup. Uruguay were eliminated by Spain in late June, and Araujo missed the tournament due to a calf problem.

Manager Hansi Flick attended the first day at the Ciutat Esportiva to oversee medical examinations for players not involved in international tournaments. He will link up with his sessions in time for the upcoming tour, with the squad travelling to St. George’s Park in England on July 27.

Araujo is unlikely to feature in the CE Europa friendly on July 24 but could be ready for the Birmingham City match on July 31. His July 20 return gives him a week to reintegrate before the intensive camp, underscoring the club’s need to manage squad fitness.