Araujo is expected to miss a training session before travelling to Barcelona, with a possible return to the national-team camp before Uruguay’s final preparation stage in Mexico. That schedule gives medical staff a narrow window to assess the injury and determine whether he can train safely.
The decision to send him back to the club reflects the importance of specialist treatment, but it also underlines the uncertainty surrounding his availability. A muscle problem can restrict acceleration, changes of direction and defensive recovery - all central demands for a centre-back operating in a high-intensity system.
Araujo’s athleticism gives Uruguay cover when the defensive line pushes forward. His ability to defend wide spaces and compete in physical duels is especially valuable to a team expected to press aggressively under Marcelo Bielsa.
If he cannot start, captain José María Giménez would likely remain the defensive leader. The report identifies Santiago Bueno and Sebastián Cáceres as the leading alternatives to partner him, though either change would reduce Bielsa’s established options at the back.
Uruguay faces Cape Verde six days after the opener, creating a more realistic potential return point if Araujo’s recovery progresses. The meeting with Spain on June 27 could become the longer-term target, particularly if the medical team chooses to avoid rushing him into the tournament.
For now, Uruguay’s priority is preserving Araujo’s involvement rather than gambling on an early comeback. His next medical assessment and training response will determine whether he is a late doubt for the opener, a substitute option, or a key defender saved for the later group matches.