League: LaLiga Sport: Soccer Country: Spain Category: Injuries

Ronald Araujo may miss Uruguay's World Cup opener against Saudi Arabia

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 8, 2026, 8:18 AM

Last updated Jun 8, 2026

Ronald Araujo may miss Uruguay's World Cup opener against Saudi Arabia

Summary

Ronald Araujo, the Barcelona defender, is at risk of missing Uruguay’s opening match of the World Cup against Saudi Arabia due to a minor muscle strain and flu symptoms. He did not participate in the final training session before the squad's travel to the United States. While his condition is considered manageable, Uruguay is taking precautions to ensure he fully recovers. Araujo's experience is vital, and if he cannot play, Guillermo Varela is expected to take his place in the starting lineup. Uruguay is optimistic that Araujo will be fit for subsequent matches against Cape Verde on June 22 and Spain on June 27.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Araujo suffers from a muscle strain and flu symptoms.
•He did not train with the Uruguay squad before traveling.
•Guillermo Varela may replace Araujo in the starting XI.
•Uruguay faces Saudi Arabia in their World Cup opener.
•Araujo aims to return for matches against Cape Verde and Spain.

Latest Updates

8:18 AMYahoo Sports — Barcelona star Ronald Araujo suffers injury before World Cup 2026 as Uruguay issue statement
1:35 PMYahoo Sports — Barcelona international could miss opening match of World Cup campaign

What they're saying

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Ronald Araujo could miss Uruguay’s opening World Cup match against Saudi Arabia, with the Barcelona defender dealing with a minor fitness issue and illness in the lead-up to the tournament.According...
— Yahoo Sports