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Until today, all signs pointed to Ronald Araujo leaving FC Barcelona this January to sign for Juventus.
However, an intervention by blaugrana Sports director Deco caused a total change in the situation on Tuesday night and the defender decided to continue at the club.
Indeed, Araujo has also agreed to sign a new contract with the Catalan giants, with his agents expected to arrive at the end of the week to finalize the deal.
Now, journalist Matteo Moretto has come forward with a detailed account of what was discussed in the meeting between Araujo and Deco and how the latter convinced the player to continue at Barcelona.
How Deco changed the course
According to the report, Deco began by seeking first-hand information from Araujo about the terms of the contract offered by Juventus. The Italians were desperate to sign the Uruguayan and their coach Thiago Motta even spoke directly to the player.
Next, the Barça manager addressed the immediate impact of his departure. He highlighted the team’s good season so far, including their victory in the Spanish Super Cup, their impressive form in the Champions League and their strong early performances in La Liga, despite a recent poor run of form.
Deco also reminded Araujo of his emotional bond with Barça, a club he has represented for years and whose values he embodies.
From emotional appeals to financial promises
After addressing Araujo’s emotional ties, Deco addressed the economic aspects. Renewal talks between the 25-year-old star and the club had been underway for more than a year, but they were far from reaching an agreement.
Despite being one of the team’s captains and a key player for five seasons, Araujo earned less than teammates such as Marc-André ter Stegen, Ansu Fati, Robert Lewandowski and Frenkie de Jong.
Deco assured Araujo that Barça would make an economic effort. With improved financial flexibility thanks to the return to the 1:1 Fair Play rule, the blaugrana We now have the means to offer better medium and long-term contracts.
Another key aspect of the discussion was the termination clause in his contract. Previously set at the astronomical figure of one billion euros, Deco proposed a more realistic figure that would allow Araujo the flexibility to leave in the future under mutually acceptable terms.
This adjustment aligned with the defender’s desire to remain competitive and adaptable in an ever-evolving football landscape.
At the end of the discussion, Araujo accepted Deco’s proposal, effectively ending weeks of speculation. The next step is to formalize the agreement in writing and ensure its renewal, which could occur this weekend.
