Araújo on Álvarez transfer rumors: The best player should play for our Barcelona

In an exclusive interview with Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona center-back Ronald Araujo spoke about Julian Alvarez, a player who will be an opponent in Thursday's first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final against Atletico Madrid and could be a future transfer target for Barcelona.

The Copa del Rey semi-final first leg against Atletico Madrid is coming up soon. How is the team's current form?

We're in good form, on track, and training has been excellent. We know it will be tough against a strong team like Atletico, but we're ready to reach the final.

Is the two-legged format more advantageous against Simeone's team?

We didn't have a preferred opponent during the draw; it was whoever we were drawn against. We have a great team capable of handling any challenge. We ended up drawing a powerhouse like Atletico, and we knew the match would be difficult, but as long as we play our own football, we have the ability to reach the final.

In this semi-final, you will face a top striker. How would you rate Julian Alvarez?

He's an outstanding player, one of the best strikers in the world in my opinion. His ability is undeniable.

He's been linked with Barcelona. Do you think he can integrate into the team?

The best players should play for the best clubs, which is us at Barcelona—that's obvious. But transfer decisions and recruitment aren't my responsibility.