Siddharth Juyal
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand points at Barcelona star Ronald Araujo as a “perfect” defender for the Red Devils.
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand singles out Barcelona star Ronald Araujo as the “perfect” defender for the club. The Red Devils have shown a lot of vulnerability in the defence department so far this season.
United kept the most clean sheets in the Premier League last season but they’ve regularly leaked goals this season. The Red Devils have conceded 20 goals out of 13 matches in all competitions this season.
United’s poor performance in defence was a cumulation of an injury crisis and mistake-prone performances from individuals. First-choice centre-backs Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez have missed a lot of actions with injury and carry long-term fitness concerns.
Ferdinand told Manchester Evening News that Araujo has all the ability to play for United in the Premier League. He said:
“The Uruguayan boy at Barcelona – Araujo. Whether he’s gettable or not, I think he’s brilliant. He’s an unreal centre half. He has every attribute to be perfect for the Premier League. I’d probably say he’s the standout, but whether he’s gettable or not, I don’t know.”
Since his promotion to the senior team for the 2020-21 season, Ajauro has been indispensable in Barcelona’s defence. The Uruguay international has made 120 appearances for the La Liga giants while contributing seven goals and three assists.
The 24-year-old is a robust no-nonsense defender with incredible athleticism and physique to dominate the defensive area. Araujo has the leadership qualities that help him organize the defence well and work according to Barcelona’s high line. The Uruguayan lacks a reputation for his passing acumen, and he focuses on ensuring team safety when regaining possession.
Araujo tends to go out of position but trusts his own pace to recover the distance if required. The 24-year-old can make impeccable tackles at high speed and recover possession for his team. He applies good decision-making during the one-on-one duels while using his body to put opponents out of possession.
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The Red Devils have a shortlist of defenders that they want to target in the 2024 transfer windows. Araujo can be a spectacular signing for United but we do not know if the 24-year-old wants to leave Barcelona.
