Araujo, rock solid at the back

There are many people to thank for the wonderful victory against Real Sociedad in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final, including Ter Stegen for some crucial saves, De Jong for a fine headed goal, Dembélé for some unstoppable runs down the wing, and Riqui Puig for scoring the decisive penalty. But also Ronald Araujo for his work in defence. The Uruguayan centre back was outstanding in keeping the Real attack in check, with 19 defensive actions without conceding a single free kick.

The Barça defence was under constant pressure from a lively Real Sociedad, but Araujo had everything under control for the entire 120 minutes, in which he completed 77 passes and only erred with seven. He recovered ten balls, intercepted two passes, made one tackle and six clearances.

Improving all the time

After making his debut and playing six games last season, Araujo is now an official part of the first team setup and a regular starter under Ronald Koeman. Despite missing a few weeks through injury, he has appeared in 13 games so far this season (nine in La Liga, three in the Champions League and one in the Super Cup) and has also scored a goal against Valencia, which was named December Goal of the Month.