Barcelona’s Ronald Araujo claps back at Ilkay Gundogan over red card controversy, emphasizes ‘values and integrity’

Barcelona's Champions League journey ended as PSG eliminated them, despite winning the first leg 3-2.

April 18, 2024

Ronald Araujo Answers Ilkay Gundogan — Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images and Pedro Salado/Getty Images

Barcelona’s journey in the Champions League reached its conclusion as PSG eliminated them, despite Barcelona winning the first leg of their quarter-final tie in France 3-2. Raphinha added to Barcelona’s lead, making it 4-2 on aggregate in the return leg, but Araujo’s expulsion altered the game’s trajectory. His red card, following a challenge on Bradley Barcola inside the box, led to PSG scoring four goals, securing their place in the semi-finals.

Gundogan expressed dissatisfaction with his teammates for conceding the tie to PSG and questioned Araujo’s decision to contest Barcola’s play inside the box.

Guardiola, speaking to CBS Sports, remarked, “You know, in these kind of crucial moments you need to be sure to get the ball, if you don’t, and again I don’t know if he touched the ball or not, you need to stay away. I would prefer to concede a goal there or give the striker 1v1. Although, the ball was played quite far ahead so I don’t even know if he would have reached the ball. But, maybe let our goalkeeper save us or even concede a goal because to go a player down so early on just kills your game.”

In response to Gundogan’s comments, Araujo remained composed, avoiding a public altercation but displaying his discontent. He stated to reporters, “I prefer to keep what I think to myself. I have codes and values that must be respected.”

Nonetheless, Araujo extended an apology to Barcelona fans, expressing regret over the red card incident. He mentioned, “I am sad, like all Barcelona fans, because of the red card. The shot was 50-50 and the referee made the decision. It hurts. To the young fans of Barcelona, I tell them we are very sorry and that is how football is. We are Barcelona and we have a very good young group, which will fight for the Champions League next year, and I am sure we will bring them a lot of joy.”

Following their Champions League exit, Araujo has redirected his focus towards dominating Spain, eyeing a “revenge” match against league leaders Real Madrid. Aware that a victory at the Santiago Bernabeu would narrow the deficit to five points, Araujo is prepared to give his all.

“We see El Clasico as a significant opportunity for redemption,” he asserted. “We must alter our mindset and seize the chance to compete for the league title, the remaining competition for us. I believe we have what it takes to win El Clasico. We must fight until the end for the league title. A victory would close the gap. There are mathematical possibilities, and we must persevere.”