Ronald Araujo of Barcelona Back in Training Following Extended Break

Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo resumed training on Monday after several weeks sidelined, with local reports indicating the absence was for mental health reasons, which enhances the position of the league frontrunners defence ahead of the forthcoming Catalan derby this weekend.

The Uruguayan player joined his fellow squad members and coach Hansi Flick for an open training session at the teams Johan Cruyff Stadium, as observed by an AFP correspondent.

Hansi Flick previously noted that Araujo could not play due to a personal matter, coming soon after the player drew scrutiny for a dismissal that contributed to Barcelonas 3-0 downfall against Chelsea in the Champions League.

Araujos reappearance in the squad prior to the Saturday encounter with Espanyol aligns well, given that teammate Andreas Christensen faces a lengthy layoff from a knee problem.

At RCDE Stadium, the stage is set for a captivating Barcelona derby in recent years, with Espanyol in fifth position experiencing one of their finest campaigns on record after scraping past relegation in the 2024/25 season.