Overview
- Head coach Hansi Flick said Araujo is not ready, described the situation as a private matter, and confirmed he will miss Atlético Madrid.
- Araujo’s representatives met sporting director Deco on Monday to request time away, according to multiple reports.
- ESPN and other outlets report Barcelona have approved an open-ended break with no timetable for his return.
- The club initially attributed his absence from the Alavés match to a stomach virus before subsequent reporting detailed the leave request.
- President Joan Laporta publicly defended Araujo and said the club is behind him following criticism of the Chelsea dismissal.