08 Aug 2026 09:14:18
Morning Ed001, what's your opinion on Araujo as a player, everyone's heads fell off because we haven't paid 60/70m for him
{Ed001's Note - as a player, he can be rash, but he is a very good player. If it wasn't for the injuries, I would be very excited for this signing. As it is, I am cautiously optimistic.}
08 Aug 2026 10:16:47
I think a loan with hopefully option to buy is best for both parties. And, I'm predicting he'll play a lot of his game on rb. I'm excited more because we have AI to coach him.
08 Aug 2026 10:24:56
The club have spent a bucket load on Leoni and Jacquet, who are clearly the future. So why would we buy someone to block them? We complain when youngsters are blocked, and then complain when they're not.
Yes, it's a risk, but it's relatively low risk. Yes, there are question marks over his injury record, but if he's another Kyrgiakos, then he'll be sent back and we reassess.
If it works, we have played a blinder in the market and everyone is happy.
He's a loan signing that covers an immediate problem at rb/cb, didn't cost the earth and allows us to concentrate on other problems.
AI is a very good coach, let's see what he can do with this guy before we judge him on past performance.
08 Aug 2026 10:29:17
Clearly a stop gap. I don't mind the signing at all. I would be annoyed had we ignored the glaring problem in defence and done nothing.
He might just shock a few fans and be a decent player for us.
08 Aug 2026 11:10:55
Barca still have Christensen and Erik Garcia in their squad. Let that sink in.
08 Aug 2026 11:51:29
The way I see it is, it was always supposed to be VVD and Jacquet. Signing Araujo gives Jacquet a few more weeks to get 100% fit. Then Araujo can go over to right back, saves us ever seeing Frimpong at right back ever again, win win.
08 Aug 2026 11:31:56
Same with you, Ed. He's been a class player but with the injuries and mental issues, that can lead to concerns. Like I've said, maybe a new environment with new scenery and energy can be very refreshing.
Cautiously optimistic but still very excited for the season.