Ronald Araujo's Impact at Liverpool and Affection for Barcelona

Ronald Araujo walked off the Anfield pitch with three points in his pocket and Barcelona still on his mind.

On loan at Liverpool from the Catalan giants, the Uruguayan centre-back produced a commanding display in the 2-1 win over Atletico Madrid on Wednesday night, then made it clear his old club remain close to his heart.

Speaking to "Movistar Liga de Campeones" after the game, Araujo did not hesitate when Barcelona’s Champions League prospects came up.

"Definitely, Barcelona are among the leading contenders to win the Champions League," he said. "They are performing brilliantly."

There was no hint of conflict, no attempt to play down his affection. Even while thriving in England under Andoni Iraola, Araujo made it clear he still lives every Barcelona moment from afar.

"I follow them. I am very happy for my team-mates," he explained. "They have a great side. I always support them, and I am very grateful for what they are achieving now."

His words carried extra weight after the performance he had just delivered. Against Atletico, Araujo was more than a steady presence at the back; he helped swing the contest.

With Liverpool chasing the game, the defender produced a moment of real invention in the area, a deft backheel inside the box that released Dominik Szoboszlai. The Hungarian’s cross found its way past Jan Oblak, and Liverpool were level.

From there, Iraola’s side pushed on to complete the turnaround and claim a 2-1 victory, with Araujo right at the heart of it all – a Liverpool leader on the night, and still a Barcelona believer from a distance.