Barcelona star Ronald Araujo suffers injury before World Cup 2026 as Uruguay issue statement

VALENCIA, SPAIN - MAY 23: Ronald Araujo of FC Barcelona looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Valencia CF and FC Barcelona at Estadi de Mestalla on May 23, 2026 in Valencia, Spain. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde Colomer/Getty Images) | Getty Images Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo has sustained a minor calf injury ahead of World Cup 2026 with Uruguay.

class="has-text-align-none">The center-back has been named in Marcelo Bielsa’s squad for the tournament but is now taking a quick trip back to Barcelona for treatment.

class="has-text-align-none">The national team have issued a statement to clarify the situation

class="has-text-align-none">“To help resolve a muscle strain, the player will receive medical treatment from professionals who have treated him previously.

class="has-text-align-none">“The coaching staff and the AUF medical team agreed with this decision. He will not participate in group activities on Monday, rejoining the team on Tuesday the 9th, when they will travel that night to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.”

class="has-text-align-none">According to Ole, it’s thought “highly unlikely” that Araujo will play Uruguay’s first game of the World Cup but it is hoped he can recover in time to face Cape Verde on June 22nd and Spain on June 27th.