Barcelona captain receives powerful backing from Uruguay defender amid mental stress – ‘I prefer to leave him alone’

Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo remains a key topic of discussion, though not due to his on-field performance. The Uruguayan center-back is reportedly navigating a challenging personal period, which has kept him off the field and sparked conversations about mental well-being in professional soccer.

Araujo hasn't played for Barcelona since receiving a red card in the 3-0 defeat against Chelsea, a moment that many see as a turning point. Consequently, the defender, who also serves as one of Barcelona's captains, has been absent for the team's last four games, and his return date remains uncertain.

This lack of clarity has led to increased speculation. That said, the reality is a bit more complicated. voices from within the Uruguayan national team are now advocating for patience and empathy.

**Support from a national teammate**

Guillermo Varela, a full-back for Flamengo who shares the Uruguay national team dressing room with Araujo, addressed the situation when asked if he had personally reached out to the Barcelona player.

"I haven’t spoken to Ronald, no. At the moment, I prefer to leave him alone, because he has his family and close friends, who he can lean on and find support in during these times," Varela stated.

Varela then emphasized the intense pressures that modern elite footballers face, noting that the demands extend beyond what is visible during matches, especially in an era defined by constant media and fan scrutiny.

"This is also part of what is happening in football today."

"The pressure, the number of games, th