Barcelona defender, Ronald Araujo, has admitted that facing Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. always pushes him to perform at his peak, as both prepare to renew their rivalry in Sunday’s El Clasico at the Santiago Bernabeu.
In an interview with Movistar Plus, the Uruguayan centre-back praised the Brazilian winger’s quality and intensity, describing their on-field battles as some of his toughest challenges.
“Vinicius is a truly spectacular player. Every game with him is a test,” Araujo told Movistar Plus.
“Whenever we played each other, he was very professional. He brings out the best in you. The greats do that. He brings out the best in everyone in those duels.
“It requires the highest level of skill from you. Only high-level players can unlock the opponent’s potential in such duels.
“I love players like Vinicius. Bold, confrontational. He is always active on the field, always thinking about victory. I don’t pay attention to what he says off the pitch. What matters is what he does on the pitch.”
Araujo has often been tasked with marking Vinicius in past encounters, and his latest remarks suggest mutual respect and recognition ahead of another high-stakes clash between Spain’s two footballing giants.
