As Barcelona get set to take on Real Madrid in what could be a title decider at Spotify Camp Nou this Sunday, all eyes will once again be on the battle between Ronald Araujo and Vinicius Jr.
The two players are at the top of their game currently and have indulged in some exciting battles over the past year, with the Barcelona man coming out on top more frequently.
Indeed, Araujo has played in three of the four El Clasico matches at right-back to tackle the threat of Vinicius Jr and the Blaugrana have won those by an 8-1 aggregate scoreline. The one match he did miss with an injury, Real Madrid won 3-1.
Araujo has been in imperious form this season and has not skipped a beat after spending a significant time on the sidelines in the first half of the season.
So much so that, Barcelona believe that the Uruguayan international is the best defender in the world at the moment, as per ESPN.
The 24-year-old joined the club from Boston River in Uruguay in 2018, thanks to the influence and efforts of former technical director Ramon Planes.
The report reveals that Real Madrid held an interest in signing Araujo at the time, while other clubs like Sevilla and Atletico Madrid were also keen. However, the centre-back ended up joining the Catalan heavyweights.
Initially, Araujo found things difficult at Barça. The defender has himself admitted in the past how he found himself out of place in the club’s philosophy due to his limited abilities on the ball. But, the Uruguayan has worked hard on that aspect and has improved a great deal, especially this season.
The report also adds that Araujo has shown signs of leadership, as he is always there to support and guide any young players that get called up to first-team training. On the pitch as well, the 24-year-old has demonstrated his leadership abilities, often shouting orders, and organising the backline.
Barcelona handed Araujo a new contract last year that runs until 2026, with a release clause worth €1 billion amid interest from Premier League sides.
Given his exploits and how he has developed in recent times, it is only natural for Barcelona to see him as the best defender in the world based on his current form.
Araujo is also very well-respected in the Real Madrid dressing room as well and he will take the field against them this weekend once again with the aim of shutting down Vinicius Jr.
