Barcelona’s hopes for a treble were dashed following a heartbreaking 4–3 aggregate loss to Inter Milan in the Champions League semi-finals. Despite a valiant effort, defensive blunders at crucial moments kept them from reaching the final. Club icon Lionel Messi has reportedly identified Ronald Araujo as a major culprit in the defeat.
Following the match, Messi allegedly criticized Araujo for his role in the team’s downfall, saying:
“Araujo’s mistakes cost us the season. I had warned him multiple times, and Flick made a huge error by including him in such a critical match, especially when a better option was available on the bench.”
Araujo came on in the second half to replace Iñigo Martínez but faltered under pressure. His defensive missteps, especially during stoppage time and early in extra time, led to two goals for Inter that secured Barcelona’s elimination.
Messi also took aim at head coach Hansi Flick, questioning his decision to sideline Andreas Christensen, who had previously shown strong performances.
“Christensen should have played. He was the more reliable choice for this match,” Messi remarked.
The fallout from Messi’s remarks has stirred debate among fans and analysts alike, with many now scrutinizing Flick’s decisions in such a pivotal game.
Barcelona’s disappointing exit may lead to serious introspection as the club plans for the upcoming season
