La Liga giants Barcelona failed to sign two of their transfer targets on the deadline day. Ronald Koeman was unhappy due to the unsuccessful transfer window as he was eager to bolster the squad with Memphis Depay and Eric Garcia. Depay was supposed to arrive at Camp Nou as Lyon and Barcelona had reached the agreements but La Liga rejected the transfer on grounds of the new salary cap.
Lack of options for Barcelona defence
Koeman wanted Garcia more than Depay as he was aware that his tactics can be laid out even without a proper number 9, as per Marca. Barcelona does not have a stable defensive line which is evident from the dismal Champions League performance. It comprises of the aging Gerard Pique and Clement Lenglet. The only substitutes available this season are the inexperienced Ronald Araujo and the injury-prone Samuel Umtiti. Barca sent Todibo out on loan on the final day of the transfer window so that they can accommodate both Depay and Garcia in the squad.
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Ousmane Dembele’s failed loan move to Manchester United proved to be the turning point of their transfer rampage. It is doubtful how Koeman will manage with just one center-back for La Liga and Champions League as Umtiti is ruled out for 3 weeks at least. Others look at the situation as a perfect opportunity for Araujo to show what a talent he is. The defender made his place in the first team squad being promoted from Barcelona B. He was once the fifth choice at the Catalan outfit and now he is the sole option his side can opt for.
Araujo to breakthrough into the first team at Barcelona
The 21-year-old has a great physique and composure. Araujo stands 6’3 feet tall but is one of the fastest players on the pitch being a center-back. With Clement Leglet facing suspension in the last match against Sevilla, the young Uruguayan filled in his spot. Koeman has definitely noticed the improvement since his debut last year where he lasted only 14 minuted before sent off for a wild tackle on Chicharito Hernandez.
The youngster changed his jersey from 30 to 4 which previously was worn by midfielder Ivan Rakitic. Araujo looks forward to more starts for Barcelona and providing stellar support from the back with his ball retention skills. The Catalunya outfit will face Getafe after the International break. Champions League is all set to kickstart as well at the end of this month.
