Xavi explains benching Araujo for important game v Real Sociedad

"Ronald's [Araujo's] benched [v Real Sociedad] because we're going to rotate the squad in the upcoming weeks," Xavi has told the media.

Although it's the very final stretch of the season, there is indeed a really tense schedule. Following Monday's Real Sociedad clash, Barca will face Almeria away on Thursday and Rayo Vallecano at home on Sunday. That's crazy.

It's important for Blaugrana to finish second in La Liga as it would allow them to participate in the Spanish Supercopa and gain some extra income. They are currently two points behind Girona but with a game in hand.

Ronald Araujo, meanwhile, is being linked with a shock Barcelona exit. Bayern Munich and Manchester United could spend over €100m on the Uruguayan this summer.