3 youngsters who return to FC Barcelona after impressive 2023/24 loan spells
- Hansi Flick to give the youngsters a chance in preseason
- Young players have impressed in 2023/24 on loan
- Here are 3 loaned out Barcelona youngsters who can play a vital role in 2024/25
JULIÁN ARAUJO
Barcelona signed Julian Araujo from La Galaxy midway through the 2022/23 season as a future replacement for Sergi Roberto. The 22-year-old made his only senior appearance for the Catalans in a 2-0 preseason win over Vissel Kobe, in July 2023.
The right-back was subsequently loaned to Las Palmas to continue his development. Playing for Las Palmas, the youngster made 28 first-team appearances, scoring two goals as the Canaries survived relegation in their return to La Liga.
With Sergi Roberto officially becoming a free agent on 30 June and chances of his renewal decreasing with each passing day, Araujo can be an exciting option for Flick. Currently, Jules Kounde is the first choice right back at the club. But, in case a big offer arrives for either Ronald Araujo or Jules Kounde, Julian can be a viable option for the club.
Even for squad depth purposes, the former Galaxy star can fill Roberto's void over the long run. But the rise of La Masia graduate Hector Fort in the first-team scenario towards the end of last season complicates things. Julian will be a part of Hansi Flick's upcoming preseason squad, but a sale is still possible. The Mexican may be sent out on another loan or sold permanently with a buy-back clause.
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