Barcelona’s turbulent season has taken another dramatic turn after club icon Gerard Piqué delivered a blistering assessment of the team’s struggles, arguing that neither Lamine Yamal nor Hansi Flick should be blamed for the recent collapse. Instead, Piqué pointed to one player he believes has played a major role in Barça’s downward spiral — Ronald Araújo. His remarks have sparked intense debate across Spain, as supporters reconsider who is truly responsible for the club’s poor form.
Piqué, known for his honesty and long-standing connection to Barcelona, defended both Yamal and Flick, insisting that criticism directed at them is misplaced. But when it came to Araújo, the former defender offered a far harsher assessment. Once considered the cornerstone of Barça’s future backline, Araújo has seen his performances questioned after a string of costly errors. “Yamal and Flick are NOT the issue,” Piqué emphasised. “Fans are blaming the wrong people. Our real problem is coming from elsewhere… and Araújo has played a major part in our disappointing season.”
His comments follow Barcelona’s crushing 3-0 loss to Chelsea in the Champions League — a match that unraveled after Araújo’s disastrous challenge led to a straight red card early in the second half. Already under pressure from Chelsea’s attack, the dismissal left Barça exposed and unable to recover, allowing the Premier League side to dominate completely.
For many supporters, that moment wasn’t simply a mistake, but a symbol of a broader pattern — lapses in discipline, loss of focus, and an inability to stay composed under high-stakes pressure. Barcelona’s Champions League hopes crumbled at the exact moment their defensive leader faltered. “That red card finished us,” Piqué said. “Moments like that decide everything. It wasn’t just one incident — it summed up his whole season.”
Fans have reacted furiously online, accusing Araújo of letting the team down and questioning his commitment. Some believe his mentality has shifted, especially with ongoing rumours linking him to a potential departure. Others point to changes in his body language and decision-making, particularly in tense matches.
The frustration is boiling over. Many supporters are calling for Araújo to be benched immediately, while others suggest Barcelona should consider selling him this summer. Once viewed as the club’s next great defensive leader, Araújo is now seen by critics as regressing both mentally and technically. For many, the match against Chelsea was the breaking point. “If he can’t stay composed in big games, he’s hurting us,” one fan wrote.
Spanish pundits have echoed the criticism. Some argue that Flick’s system demands intelligence and restraint from defenders — traits Araújo has struggled to consistently show this season. Others say his once-impressive physical style has become reckless and predictable, destabilizing Barcelona’s back line. One analyst commented, “He’s too emotional on the pitch. A defender at this level must think before acting. Araújo reacts first — and that’s costing Barcelona dearly.”
Tensions are reportedly rising inside the club as well. Flick was said to be furious after the Chelsea match, and there are suggestions that his patience is wearing thin. Some players were reportedly upset with Araújo, believing his red card was both avoidable and unforgivable at such a crucial moment.
Perhaps most painful for fans is the contrast between Araújo’s past reputation and his current struggles. Once seen as a symbol of grit, leadership, and commitment, he now finds himself under immense scrutiny. His red card didn’t just change a match — it may have reshaped Barcelona’s entire season.
What comes next is uncertain. Will Flick drop him? Will Barcelona listen to transfer offers? Can Araújo regain confidence and rebuild trust with the team and supporters?
One thing is certain: Gérard Piqué has shifted the spotlight squarely onto Ronald Araújo — and with Barcelona’s season teetering, the pressure on the defender has never been greater.
