After the Rayo Vallecano Match: Hansi Flick Rules Barcelona Star as a Failure, Confirming There is Someone Much Better

Barcelona continues its winning streak, once again displaying defensive solidity in their narrow 1-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano. However, this match left a clear conclusion for Hansi Flick: he now has his perfect center-back duo, and Iñigo Martínez has emerged as one of the biggest beneficiaries.

The Basque defender put on an impressive performance, acting as a defensive wall with his confidence, leadership, and ability to read the game. His solid display has completely convinced the German coach that he deserves a permanent spot in the lineup.

According to reports from the Spanish newspaper El Nacional, the impressive performances of Iñigo Martínez, combined with the continued rise of Pau Cubarsí, have led Flick to make a bold decision: Ronald Araújo has lost his place in the starting XI.

When Iñigo Martínez first joined Barcelona, many assumed he would be nothing more than a backup option. However, he has now become an essential part of the team. His vast experience and composure have been crucial in defense, especially as Cubarsí continues his rapid development.

Against Rayo Vallecano, Iñigo once again justified Flick’s faith in him. He was dominant in aerial duels, composed in possession, and well-positioned throughout the game, allowing him to showcase his best level.

Alongside him, Pau Cubarsí was untouchable. Despite his young age, the teenager demonstrated remarkable maturity, earning the respect of the dressing room and Flick himself. The partnership between Iñigo and Cubarsí functioned seamlessly, and based on their performances, they seem destined to be the first-choice pairing moving forward.

This situation puts Ronald Araújo in a very delicate position. The Uruguayan defender, once considered one of the best in the world in recent years, has now gone from being an undisputed starter to a player struggling to reclaim his spot in Flick’s plans.

In the match against Rayo Vallecano, Araújo was once again left on the bench. Flick preferred the Iñigo-Cubarsí duo, and there is little indication that this decision will change anytime soon. The German coach values Iñigo’s tactical intelligence and Cubarsí’s ability to read the game—qualities that Araújo, with his aggressive and physical style, does not offer to the same extent.

This shift in the defensive hierarchy is no coincidence. In recent matches, Araújo has made costly mistakes. His red card against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League was a turning point, and his performances have declined since then.

With this situation unfolding, speculation about Araújo’s potential summer exit has resurfaced. Premier League giants like Manchester United and Chelsea have expressed interest in signing him. Given Barcelona’s financial difficulties, the club might consider selling him if a significant offer arrives.

The match against Rayo Vallecano made it clear: Iñigo Martínez and Pau Cubarsí are Flick’s preferred center-back pairing. Araújo will have to wait for his opportunity, but at the moment, his place in Barcelona’s starting XI seems out of reach.

If this situation continues, Araújo might be forced to reassess his future. A move to the Premier League could provide him with a fresh start, especially at clubs that admire his defensive qualities and physical presence.

Meanwhile, Flick remains firm in his decision. He has found balance in the backline with Martínez and Cubarsí, and unless something drastic happens, this duo will likely lead Barcelona’s defense for the foreseeable future.

Araújo’s decline in importance is shocking, considering how vital he was under previous managers. However, Flick has different priorities, and at the moment, they do not include the Uruguayan as a starting player.

Barcelona’s defensive strategy under Flick is becoming clearer with each match. The German coach is prioritizing intelligence and tactical awareness over pure physicality. This means that Araújo must either adapt or face the possibility of an exit.

With the summer transfer window approaching, Barcelona’s stance on Araújo will be critical. If the club receives an irresistible offer, they might be tempted to part ways with him, using the funds to strengthen other areas of the squad.

For now, however, the reality remains unchanged: Araújo is no longer a guaranteed starter at Barcelona, and Flick has already found a defensive pairing that he trusts completely.