Ronald Araújo’s emotional message to his teammates before the Super Cup final

Ronald Araújo returned when Barça needed him most. After taking time away to prioritize his mental health, the captain returned for the Super Cup final against Real Madrid and delivered a message that left a mark on the locker room

Ronald Araujo pulled on the FC Barcelona shirt once again after a period away from the team—a time he chose to dedicate to his emotional and mental well-being. It was a necessary pause to find himself again and return stronger, not only as a footballer but also as the captain and leader he has always been within the Blaugrana locker room.

His comeback took place on the grandest stage possible: the Spanish Super Cup final against Real Madrid. In Jeddah, amidst all the pressure of a Clásico with a trophy on the line, Araujo stepped up as a leader both on and off the pitch. Before the match, he addressed his teammates with a speech filled with emotion and strength—words that, as players like Pedri later admitted, served to reinforce the team's bond and provide the necessary spark before the decisive showdown.

‘Let’s keep making history,’ was one of the phrases the Uruguayan center-back uttered in the locker room just before taking the pitch in pursuit of the club’s 16th Spanish Super Cup. Following the victory and the clinching of the title, Araujo shared several images and videos on social media celebrating the trophy, accompanied by a very personal message.

In it, the captain reflected on his personal journey: 'I learned that knowing when to stop is also a way of loving oneself. Taking care of your mind and heart doesn't mean giving up; it means trusting that God is working even in the silence. Taking a step back renewed me and allowed me to return with more energy,' he expressed. He admitted it wasn't an easy road, but he cherished the privilege of returning in such a way.

Araujo also wanted to express his gratitude for the support he received throughout this time: 'Thank you to the club, my teammates, and the fans for the affection, respect, and kindness. I returned by lifting this trophy, and it was something very special. We move forward together.' He closed his message with a biblical quote —'Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest' (Matthew 11:28)— and a declaration of eternal love for the club: 'Barça, ara i sempre!