Barcelona manager Hansi Flick praised Ronald Araujo’s resilience ahead of Sunday’s Spanish Super Cup final, highlighting the defender’s recovery from a long-term hamstring injury and dismissing rumors about his future at the club.
Barca, the most successful Super Cup team with 14 trophies, are preparing to face Real Madrid in their second El Clasico of the season, in the final played in Saudi Arabia.
Flick was referring to the return of Uruguayan Araujo, who recently recovered from a serious long-term injury and was the subject of speculation that he wanted to leave the club.
“Ronald is back stronger than ever. He is a great option for us, he is very professional and ready to play. I don’t pay attention to gossip. I’m just glad to have him on my side.” Flick told reporters on Saturday.
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“I told the team: there is only outside noise, you have to be consistent and strong. It’s a great season, overall we did well.
“We have to stay focused. We played well for the club and we can play even better. That’s what we want.”
When asked about attacking midfielder Dani Olmo’s readiness for the match, Flick confirmed that the player is in excellent shape.
On Wednesday, Spain’s National Sports Council allowed Barcelona to provisionally register Olmo and striker Pau Victor, meaning they can play in the final.
Both players signed at the end of the season, but as the club was unable to meet La Liga’s salary cap, they were only allowed to sign for the first half of the season.
“Yes, he (Olmo) can play. He is prepared physically and mentally and is very happy with this opportunity,” Flick said.
Looking ahead, Flick stressed the need for a disciplined performance against one of the best teams in the world, despite a convincing 4-0 La Liga victory at the Bernabeu in October.
We have to play for 90 minutes and reduce mistakes. Madrid is exceptional in transitions and we have to be prepared.
With the stakes high and his confidence growing, Flick left no doubt about the ambition of his team, which is third in La Liga, five points behind leaders Real.
“It’s the Super Cup, El Clasico and a chance to prove ourselves. If we win, it will be a huge victory for the club.”
