Barcelona captain Ronald Araujo granted indefinite leave

Barcelona captain and defender Ronald Araujo has requested, and been granted, an indefinite leave of absence from the club, according to media reports on Monday.

The Uruguayan missed Saturday's 3-1 La Liga home victory over Alaves, with manager Hansi Flick citing a "stomach virus" as the reason for his absence.

Araujo's last appearance came during their 3-0 Champions League defeat to Chelsea last Tuesday, when he was sent off for a second yellow card following a clumsy trip on Cucurella just before half-time.

According to The Athletic, Barcelona's sporting director, Deco, met with Araujo's representatives on Monday and agreed to give the 28-year-old the time he needs to take a break from football.

Flick described the situation as personal and requested respect and discretion from the media.

“It is a private situation, I don’t want to say more. And please, if you can respect it I would appreciate it,” Flick said.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta also defended Araujo, saying he has been unfairly criticised and needs support during a difficult period.

“He has been heavily criticised, and I don’t think that’s fair. He gives his all on the pitch, he’s our captain, and now he needs to get through this difficult period because he’s a very emotional person with strong feelings,” Laporta said.

There was no immediate response from Barcelona to a request for comment outside normal business hours.

Barcelona, who currently top the La Liga table, will host fourth-placed Atletico Madrid on Tuesday.