Ronald Araújo is quickly becoming one of the biggest reasons behind Liverpool’s sudden defensive transformation under Andoni Iraola. The Uruguayan powerhouse is showing that even when deployed away from his natural centre-back position, he can bring serious defensive authority. 💪🔥
Araújo’s numbers have been screaming for attention. In his first Premier League start at right-back against Ipswich, he won 9 of 10 duels, including all six of his aerial duels, while also making seven clearances.
And the improvement hasn’t stopped there. Since Araújo established himself at right-back, Liverpool have put together three consecutive Premier League clean sheets, against Ipswich, Fulham and Bournemouth. It is their first run of three straight league shutouts since 2024.
🚨 The defensive numbers are getting ridiculous!
🧱 Araújo brings power and aggression to the right side
💪 Dominant in aerial and physical battles
🛡️ Comfortable stepping inside to support the centre-backs
⚡ Gives Liverpool extra protection against counter-attacks
🔴 Three straight Premier League clean sheets since his introduction as a regular right-back
Against Bournemouth, Liverpool once again showed that defensive resilience. Araújo won six of seven aerial duels and three of four ground duels, while his presence helped Liverpool control the dangerous moments and protect another clean sheet.
Even Andoni Iraola has highlighted the growing connection between Araújo, Jérémy Jacquet, Virgil van Dijk and the rest of the defensive unit, stressing that Liverpool are becoming more solid as the players develop their understanding.
There is, of course, a trade-off. Araújo doesn’t offer the same attacking explosiveness as a natural attacking full-back, which is where someone like Jeremie Frimpong can provide a different option. Iraola himself has indicated that the choice can depend on what a particular match requires.
But when Liverpool need defensive steel, physicality and protection, Araújo is making an extremely strong case for himself. 🥶🇺🇾
Three clean sheets. Relentless duels. Dominant aerial presence.
Big Ronald is building a wall on Liverpool’s right flank! 🧱🔥🔴