- Araujo ignores Barcelona contract offers
- Xavi sacked by Barcelona
- Chances of Araujo staying increase
WHAT HAPPENED?
Marca have claimed that the Uruguay international is now more likely to remain at the Catalan club due to Xavi’s imminent departure. The former midfielder had previously made a U-turn on his plans to leave Barcelona but now looks set to be replaced by former Germany and Bayern Munich boss, Hansi Flick.
Araujo, 25, has been in negotiations with Barcelona regarding the extension of his contract but was hesitant to commit to the team if Xavi stayed at the club
THE BIGGER PICTURE
After initially deciding to remain at Barcelona, Xavi was then relieved of his duties as manager by club president Joan Laporta following comments he had made about the economic situation at the club.
This comes as a boost to Araujo, who had previously ignored the contract offers from Barcelona as he monitored the situation involving Xavi.
The report went on to claim that the relationship between the defender and his former manager had become strained, which led to him being ‘evasive’ in negotiations.
DID YOU KNOW?
Despite being sacked by Barcelona, Xavi has not ruled out a return to his former club – which will not be well received by Araujo and his representatives.
“Yes, I would like a return,” Xavi said when asked about the possibility of coming back in the future. “Why not? Barcelona is the club of my life. I have enjoyed this experience — and also suffered, of course. But I love being at this club and working for it.
“I am fine. It’s been tough last week, but I have my conscience very clear. I’m proud and happy. When we got here we knew it was a difficult time for the club and I think we can be proud of the work we have done.
WHAT NEXT FOR ARAUJO?
Despite Xavi leaving, Araujo has ambitions of joining a team that will compete for titles in the near future. The young defender reportedly does not view Barcelona as this team, which could mean a move away from the club is on the cards this summer.
He is currently contracted until 2026 and has most recently been linked with a shock move to Chelsea in the Premier League.
