Barca's Araujo misses training ahead of Rayo fixture

Ronald Araujo is still unable to participate in team training, giving Barcelona manager Hansi Flick a selection dilemma ahead of Monday's La Liga matchup against Rayo Vallecano.

The Uruguayan centre-back, who recently signed a contract extension, missed Thursday's session and was again absent from Friday's group workout, raising concerns about his fitness for the upcoming match.

As he continues to work on his rehabilitation on his own, Araujo's participation is still seriously doubtful, even with the additional recovery time provided by the Monday night match.

With only two potential training sessions remaining before the game, Flick may be forced to consider alternative defensive arrangements for the visit of Rayo Vallecano.

The match, set to take place at the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys due to ongoing renovations at Camp Nou, is crucial for Barcelona as they aim to maintain pressure on league leaders Real Madrid.