Story byHow Ronald Araujo inspired Barcelona without even starting the Super Cup finalBarca UniversalTue, January 13, 2026 at 8:20 AM UTC·2 min readRonald Araujo’s return to action during Barcelona’s Spanish Super Cup victory over Real Madrid was about far more than football. Although the captain only featured briefly, his presence carried huge emotional weight. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementFor the Uruguayan defender, this was an important step forward after a long and difficult period marked by mental stress, making the moment deeply symbolic. A dressing room speechAraujo’s comeback was felt even before he stepped onto the pitch, as the centre-back addressed the team inside the dressing room before the final. Despite having been away from the group while overcoming mental health issues, Araujo spoke with the authority and calm of a true leader. Drawing inspiration from Barcelona’s recent past, Araujo referenced the previous Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu, where Real Madrid had beaten Barça 2-1. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementHe used that painful memory to remind the squad how far they had come and what was at stake. The talk ended with a line that stayed with the players as they walked out to fight for the trophy: “Let’s keep making history,” he said as quoted by Mundo Deportivo. Post-match celebrationAfter the final whistle, as Barcelona celebrated another title, Araujo was lifted by his teammates and placed right at the centre of the celebrations. The following day, Araujo decided to speak directly to the fans and everyone who had supported him throughout his journey. The captain reflected on what he had learned during his time away from football. He wrote,AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement“I learned that stopping at the right time is self-love. Taking care of your mind and heart is not giving up, it is trusting that God works even in silence.
