Araujo vows to be 'back like a bull'

Ronald Araujo is battling hard to recover from a right hamstring injury sustained while playing for Uruguay at the Copa América, and in an interview with the club's media coinciding with his fifth anniversary in the first team he said, “I'm making good progress and that makes me happy. It hasn't been an easy time, but I've learned a lot both physically and mentally. I'm pleased with the way my recovery has been going, and I'll be back like a bull."

"I have had five very nice years at the club and I'm very contented" he continued. "These years have been packed with experiences. It's been like a dream for me."

Asked to pick a highlight, he named his debut against Sevilla in October 2019, "because although it wasn't in the best circumstances, it was a unique moment. I also remember my first goal and how I ran to hug Messi. And the first Liga that we won away to Espanyol, that was an unforgettable day for us because you need to be consistent, and we played spectacular football. It was very important for such a young group. And it was also cool to celebrate with the fans on the victory parade.”

Araujo has earned so much respect among the squad that he is now vice-captain to Marc ter Stegen: “That makes me feel proud and privileged" he says. "It comes naturally to me because I am always concerned about everyone else. I know what responsibilities come with it, but I feel ready."

Aiming high

He has yet to play under the orders of new coach Hansi Flick, but Araujo insists that "I am enjoying this team. It's always important to get off to a good start, especially in the league because it's such a long race. We know there's still a long way to go, but things are looking good so far ... The challenge is to win trophies this season."