Barcelona captain begins pre-season training on July 20
According to Sports.
Context
Ronald Araujo, after his participation in the World Cup, presents himself for FC Barcelona's pre-season training, where his experience will be vital. The Uruguayan defender, who did not play in the tournament due to injury, is now looking to regain his form and contribute to the club's success in the 2026/27 season.
Why this matters
Ronald Araujo's return to pre-season training is crucial for FC Barcelona, especially with the new season approaching. As captain, his leadership and experience will be key to integrating the new players and strengthening the team's defense under the direction of Hansi Flick. Furthermore, its recovery after the World Cup is indicative of the club's commitment to ensuring its athletes are in top shape for the challenges ahead.
Main conclusions
- Barcelona captain begins pre-season training on July 20.
- Ronald Araujo, captain of FC Barcelona, will return to pre-season training on July 20, after a post-World Cup rest period, as the team prepares for the new season.
- Barcelona captain to start pre-season training on July 20 after undergoing medicals today - Yahoo Sports.
Defender Ronald Araujo, captain of FC Barcelona, is scheduled to report to pre-season training on July 20th. This date marks exactly one week after the rest of the squad officially began preparations for the new 2026/27 campaign. According to information released by Cadena SER, the Uruguayan defender has been granted an extended leave of absence following his participation in the FIFA World Cup and will join activities under coach Hansi Flick in time for the team's tour.
The movement at Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper has already started to gain momentum, with players who did not participate in international tournaments presenting themselves for medical examinations and physical assessments. Coach Hansi Flick, who begins his third season at Barça, was present to oversee the return of available players. The first day was dedicated to health checks, but on-field training should begin on July 14th, focusing on the athletes' physical condition.
Araujo's return, although delayed, is a standard measure for players who competed in the World Cup. The defender was part of the Uruguayan team that was eliminated by Spain in June, but did not play in any match in the tournament due to a calf injury. Now, he must enjoy a mandatory rest period before starting pre-season training on the 20th.
Although Araujo visited the Ciutat Esportiva to check on his calf injury and welcome his teammates, his presence was solely for medical reasons and did not indicate his immediate return to training. The club also called up several players fromyouth team, signaling a day full of activities.
Despite constant speculation about the player's possible departure to generate financial resources for the club, Araujo remains fully committed to the project and does not consider leaving the team. His return is in line with the team's travel plans, which will leave for St. George's Park, England, on July 27, for an intense training camp. Although he is unlikely to feature in the unofficial friendly against CE Europa on July 24th, there is an expectation that he will be ready to feature in the following friendly against Birmingham City, scheduled for July 31st.
What happens next
Araujo will join training at the Ciutat Esportiva on July 20, where he is expected to take part in preparatory activities for the Barcelona tour. On-field training, which begins on July 14, will focus on the players' physical condition, and Araujo's presence will be a positive boost for the team. Coach Hansi Flick will have the opportunity to evaluate the defender's performance and plan the strategy for next season.