Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo has become a major doubt for Uruguay’s next two World Cup 2026 matches after the injury he picked up before the tournament began. His absence could leave Marcelo Bielsa without one of his most reliable defenders just as Group H tightens up.
Uruguay had to start the tournament without Araujo against Saudi Arabia, and Mundo Deportivo reports that he is also unlikely to be ready for Cape Verde or Spain. The issue is a minor calf tear, and while his recovery is moving in the right direction, he still needs more time before returning.
Bielsa takes responsibility for the setback
Marcelo Bielsa has accepted responsibility for the injury after saying Araujo arrived for international duty with a “muscle problem which wasn’t serious” but then worsened during training. That turn has now put his availability for the group stage in doubt at a delicate moment for Uruguay.
Group H remains wide open after the opening round, with Spain held by Cape Verde and Uruguay drawing with Saudi Arabia. That has left everything to play for, and Uruguay will be hoping Araujo can recover in time to help push the team into the knockout stage.
If Bielsa’s side do advance, Araujo is expected to be fit for the Round of 32. For now, though, Uruguay must plan for at least one more decisive match without a defender they were counting on from the start.