In an exclusive interview with Mundo Deportivo, FC Barcelona captain Ronald Araujo discussed the mental-health problems he faced and how the club supported him after his sending-off at Stamford Bridge on November 25. He expressed gratitude to the organisation and singled out sporting director Deco, coach Hansi Flick and former president Joan Laporta as key figures in his recovery.

Araujo explained that, although he never fully decided to give up football, he spent a lot of time reflecting because he no longer felt like himself and knew his performances were below what he could deliver. Football remains central to his life — he said he would still play non-professionally if necessary — but losing the enjoyment made clear that he needed a break and professional help.

He first spoke with Deco, who was initially surprised because players at Barcelona do not usually reveal these issues so openly, but handled the matter very personally and immediately contacted the president and the coach to organise assistance. Araujo emphasised that the club provided everything he needed from the outset and showed trust in him as a player.

Hansi Flick reacted with visible concern and offered consistent support, sending messages encouraging Araujo to take the time necessary to recover calmly. That backing from the coach, the club and team-mates gave Araujo the peace of mind to focus on getting better.

Family support was decisive: his wife stayed strong and was a pillar during very dark days when he sometimes could not bring himself to get out of bed. Messages from team-mates — he highlighted notes from Pedri, Frenkie and others — lifted his spirits and reassured him that they trusted him and wanted him back to his best.

Araujo was also surprised by the reactions from opponents abroad, particularly players in Italy and Germany, many of whom praised his decision and told him they had experienced similar issues but kept them private through fear of stopping. Their admiration and shared experiences gave him additional encouragement.

He also acknowledged the contribution of staff members who are part of the daily life at the club — he mentioned Alejandro and Bojan among those who helped. Overall, Araujo stressed that from the moment he opened up to the sporting director, he received the support needed to begin his recovery.

The interview page shows the piece was updated on 11 February 2026 at 00:30 CET.