Araujo Joins Training as Iraola Intensifies Pre-Season

Ronald Araujo wasted no time getting to work. The defender, who completed his loan move from FC Barcelona on Monday, joined his new teammates in a sharp midweek session as Andoni Iraola cranked up preparations for the coming campaign.

The Uruguay international slotted straight into the drills, quickly introduced to the tempo and demands of Iraola’s setup. The pace was high, the touches quick, and the tackles firm enough to show this was no gentle welcome.

Alexis Mac Allister was also involved after linking up with the squad earlier in the week, adding composure and quality in the middle of the park. His presence brought an extra layer of control to the rondos, where the ball fizzed between red shirts in tight spaces.

There was more good news on the fitness front. Jeremy Jacquet and Curtis Jones, both absent from last weekend’s clash with AS Monaco, took a full part in training. Their return added depth and competition across the pitch, with Jones driving play from midfield and Jacquet easing back into rhythm.

The session mirrored the schedule ahead. Iraola’s players are building towards a friendly double-header against Como 1907, and Wednesday’s work reflected that intensity. Rapid-fire rondos, high-pressing patterns and full-throttle team drills underlined a clear message: pre-season is entering a more serious phase.

With new faces bedding in and key players returning, Iraola’s group now heads into the Como tests with sharper legs, louder voices on the pitch, and a defensive leader fresh from Barcelona ready to stake his claim.