Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick addressed the media ahead of the team’s Saturday visit to Celta Vigo, confirming updates on several key players. Ronald Araujo is set to return to team training on Sunday after being sidelined since July. Flick expressed confidence in the Uruguayan defender’s recovery, stating, “He’s gonna be back with us this week.”
🚨 BREAKING: Ronald Araujo is BACK! He is expected to return to group training on Sunday, confirms Hansi Flick. 🇺🇾🔥✅ pic.twitter.com/y1Lh6Rm2u3
— Managing Barça (@ManagingBarca) November 22, 2024
The German manager also confirmed that Gavi is now ready to start games, providing a boost to the team’s midfield options. Lamine Yamal will miss the upcoming game against Celta Vigo as Barcelona exercises caution with the young talent. Flick said, “We won’t take any risks. He will be back as soon as he feels 100% good and fit.” Reports from the Catalan press reveal that Yamal has agreed to a six-year contract extension with Barcelona, which will include a €1 billion release clause, and will be signed when he turns 18.
Veteran striker Robert Lewandowski spoke highly of Yamal’s abilities, recalling his first impression of the prodigy: “The first time I saw Lamine in training, he was just 15 years old. I’ve seen a lot of talent in my life, but with him, I said to myself – “Oh my God! He’s incredible. How is he doing this at such a young age? This is impossible!”