Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo has revealed why he extended his contract with the Spanish club despite speculations linking him with a move away from the Catalonia club.
Having been linked with a move to Juventus, Araujo signed an extension that runs until 2031 and says he’s thrilled to be continuing his career with the Catalans.
“Honestly, I’m very happy. Thank God. It’s incredible to be able to renew with Barcelona and stay for many more years. The happiness is immense,” he told the club’s media.
“I worked hard for this and I think we are achieving and I’m very happy. The club’s trust in me is evident and that’s important.
“It means you’re doing things right and the work is good. I hope these are great years and they come with a title which is the most important thing – to win, to keep growing as a professional.
“I think we have unfinished business – we need to win the Champions League. That’s our biggest goal and we are going for it.”
Ronald Araujo with the ball during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD7 match between SL Benfica and FC Barcelona (Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images)
Araujo also says he feels the love at Barcelona after a winter window where the club rejected an offer from Serie A side Juventus.
“I’ve been here for six years now. I think over time, I’ve earned the affection of the whole team. It’s also true that we have a young team with a lot of talent and ambition,” he added.
“I can bring a bit of what I am. I try to bring energy and I think that’s important. We have a young team but hopefully great things are coming our way.
“I’ve always felt the love. Even people on the street have always told me to stay. And that was incredible. Since I’ve arrived, I’ve felt immense love. When I hear the fans at the stadium shouting ‘El Uruguayo’ it gives me energy and I’m so happy.”
After missing the start of the season through injury, Araujo is now fit and will be hoping to nail down his place in the starting XI while Inigo Martinez is out injured.
