Ronald Araujo reached a major personal milestone this week after making his 200th appearance for Barcelona in the 3-0 Copa del Rey semi-final second leg win over Atletico Madrid.
The moment marked another important chapter in the defender’s journey with the club.
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Araujo joined Barcelona as a relatively unknown rookie at the age of 19 and has grown into one of the most important figures in the team and is now part of the club’s captain’s team.
The 26-year-old spoke to SPORT about his feelings after reaching the milestone.
“For me, playing 200 games for Barcelona is a dream come true.” he began.
Looking back on his early career at the club, Araujo admitted that reaching such a milestone so soon after arriving in Spain was something he never expected.
“The truth is, in my mind, reaching 200 games was very far away. When I was 19, I only dreamed of playing for the first team.”
unforgettable moments
During these appearances, the defender experienced many unforgettable nights in a Barcelona shirt.
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Asked to pick a highlight from his 200 games, Araujo pointed to a special night against Real Madrid.
“I can name many games that brought us the title, games that will remain in my memory and come to mind… but I will choose the 4-0 derby in 2022 where I scored.”
Looking back on his entire time at the club, the Uruguayan highlighted the trophies he won with Barcelona as his most cherished moments.
“I would choose the titles we win. Lifting the trophy wearing this shirt is always very special because you know how much it means to the club and the fans.” he pointed out.
source of pride
Araujo is proud to have made his 20th appearance for Barcelona. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
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As one of the current captains, Araujo also talked about what it means to lead the team and represent the club on the field.
“It’s a huge sense of pride. Barcelona has a long history and has had many legendary captains.
“For me, it means responsibility, representing the values of the club and helping my teammates on and off the field.”
The defender also admitted that reaching the 200-game target feels more meaningful after the mental stress challenges of recent months.
“Yes, because when you go through hard times, you appreciate everything more.
“I worked hard to get back fit and be able to help the team, so reaching 200 games has a special meaning.”
pursue more
After dealing with injuries and difficult moments early in the season, Araujo expressed gratitude for the support he has received along the way.
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“I’m so grateful. Thank you to God, my family, the club and the fans.
“It’s been a tough couple of months and a lot of hard work, and when you see that all the hard work has been worth it, it gives you a lot of motivation to keep going.”
Despite reaching the impressive milestone, the Barcelona defender insists his ambitions at the club remain clear.
“My dream is to continue winning titles with Barcelona.
“If I get to 300 or 400 games it will be because I’ve done my job well and helped the team, so hopefully I can continue to increase that number for many years to come.” he concluded.
