Copa del Rey Semi Final 2024/25: Atletico de Madrid vs FC Barcelona, Barca Players of FC Barcelona from L to R Robert Lewandowski, Pedro Gonzalez Lopez Pedri, Ronald Araujo celebrates after winning the Copa del Rey Semi-Final match between Atletico de Madrid and FC Barcelona at Riyadh Air Metropolitano on April 2, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. Madrid Estadio Riyadh Air Metropolitano Madrid Spain Copyright: xAlbertoxGardinx AGardin_20250402_Football_Copa_Rey_Atletico_Madrid_Barcelona_0324
Liverpool have managed their squad well under Arne Slot.
The former Feyenoord boss has had a great first season in charge. Despite the disappointment of losing out on the treble, Liverpool could still end the season with a Premier League trophy. Aside Slot’s tactics which brought the best out of the team, his squad management was even better.
Liverpool managed to make it through most parts of the season without major injuries. The squad has been kept at optimum levels. However, the lack of depth cost the team in the last month as injuries hit the team. Cody Gakpo and Trent Alexander-Arnold missed out in crucial games, and Liverpool lost as they had no quality back up players.
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Liverpool eye Barcelona star
Liverpool could lose three of their starting back four this summer. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil Van Dijk are set to leave on free transfers at the end of the season. Ibrahima Konate also keeps attracting interest from European clubs. The French defender has one year left on his deal, and Liverpool could be forced to sell if he does not renew his contract.
According to Fichajes, Liverpool have found the perfect replacement for Van Dijk. Barcelona’s Ronald Araujo has been linked with a move to Anfield this summer. It has been speculated that the 26-year old is open to leaving, and talks between the two parties could take place when the season ends. Araujo has a €65 million release clause which will rise to €80 million in January 2026.
Liverpool will have a fight on their hands to get the defender from Barcelona. Despite Araujo haven been displaced from the starting lineup, Hansi Flick has insisted that he remains important to his team. The defender was a huge part of a defensive display that saw Barcelona beat Atletico Madrid to reach the Copa del Rey final.
“I want Araujo in my team because he is one of the best defenders. He’s a professional and is now fit, having recovered from his injury, so he can help us.”
The La Liga side also offered him a huge long-term contract after speculation on his future over the last year.
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