Julian Araujo caused quite a controversy during the end of the January transfer window when Barcelona had completed the paperwork just 18 seconds late, leading to much speculation on whether or not the transfer was valid.
While Barça did officiate the move later in February, the club and the player are still awaiting a verdict from the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Until then, the player has been forced to train for the Barça Athletic team. He cannot play matches until a verdict is given.
A recent report from Diario SPORT has offered an update on Araujo’s progress at Camp Nou so far, suggesting that the right-back is having difficulties settling into the new conditions.
The report claims the defender is struggling to understand Barcelona’s positional play. He is more accustomed to Mexico’s style of play and cannot transition into a style that revolves around possession and positional awareness.
The fact that Araujo is not eligible to appear in any games adds to the problems of the former LA Galaxy starlet.
That said, Barça Athletic coach Rafael Marquez is closely monitoring the player’s progress. He is trying everything he can to help his compatriot get used to Barça style of play. Even Xavi Hernandez has called Araujo into training with the first team on more than occasions.
It was expected that Araujo would initially find it difficult to settle in quickly. The club are hoping that the player would improve as time progresses, and with proper on-field action, he could adapt far more quickly.
Only time will tell what the future holds for this young talent, as he seeks to become successful in one of the most prestigious clubs in the world.
