Araujo misses B team win as Setien manages shortages in defence
The Uruguayan centre-back could get a chance with the first team in the coming weeks
Any absence is critical for Barcelona coach Quique Setien. The enforced absence of Clement Lenglet at Mallorca next weekend due to suspension leaves him with few alternatives.
On Sunday, Barça trained as usual with the focus on their defence, above all the centre-backs Samuel Umtiti and Ronald Araujo. The surprise was that Umtiti was not involved. The second trained with the first team and didn't play for the B team due to the risk of injury or suspension, as he's the fourth choice centre-back currently.
As well as Araujo, Sergi Puig, Ramos Mingo, Matheus and Ansu Fati trained from the B team. Riqui Puig and Alex Collado did not, as they played against Llagostera. Barça are not in action again until Mallorca on Saturday, which comes four days before the decisive duel against Napoli in the Champions League.
For that reason, Setien has given hos players Monday off. They will return to training Tuesday at 18.00h local time.
UMTITI-PIQUE AT SON MOIX
Umtiti will come into the side in Lenglet's place and partner Gerard Pique in the middle of the defence. The French defender, as Lenglet was against Real Sociedad, is one booking from a ban.
Therefore, with suspensions and injuries mounting, Uruguayan defender Araujo's role could be important in the coming weeks. He has to be ready to be involved if needed and handed an opportunity.
