Emotional response from Barcelona leader after Inter defeat sparks criticism – ‘I accept and acknowledge’ | OneFootball

Barcelona’s painful exit from the Champions League at the hands of Inter Milan left fans heartbroken—and captain Ronald Araujo in the firing line.

The Uruguayan centre-back, known for his resilience and leadership, has been blamed by some Barça supporters for the goals that knocked the team out during extra time at the San Siro.

The aftermath saw Araujo go quiet on social media, but that silence broke yesterday with a heartfelt message posted on Instagram. Instead of dodging the blame, the Barça captain chose accountability.

“I accept and acknowledge it. I’ve never been one to hide, and I never will. It hurts to be left out, but it doesn’t end here. We worked, fought, and gave our all in a very tough series. It wasn’t enough, and that hurts,” he wrote.

But Araujo’s message did not end with regret. The defender expressed deep pride in his teammates and fans, praising their unity throughout a demanding season.

“I also feel pride. Pride in this team, in my teammates, in the crest we represent, and in every Barça fan who was with us every step of the way,” he added.

Eyes on El Clasico

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The Barcelona dressing room is now shifting its full attention to what could be a season-defining moment: Sunday’s El Clasico against Real Madrid.

Araujo closed his message with a rallying cry: “El Clasico is coming up, and we are going to give it our all. We are Barça, we will come back stronger.”

The defender also faced tough post-match questions about his role in Inter’s final two goals, particularly Francesco Acerbi’s stoppage-time equaliser that forced extra time and Davide Frattesi’s late winner.

Araujo didn’t shy away from responsibility: “In the first one, I’m marking him… It’s just the striker’s luck that he gets the touch. I was ahead.

“In the other, I know I’m strong in one-on-one situations, and I have to be better there. In football, if you cover well, you can solve that play.”

Araujo’s honesty and refusal to deflect criticism stand in contrast to the pressure-filled environment that surrounds Barcelona.

With La Liga still within reach, and Real Madrid the next opponent, Araujo’s words will resonate inside the locker room as much as they will with fans.