Ronald Araujo says he spent about 18 months dealing with anxiety that later developed into depression while continuing to play for Barcelona.

The Uruguay defender, now on loan at Liverpool, has spoken publicly about a difficult period in his life and explained how he eventually sought professional support after realising he could no longer cope alone.

Araujo’s mental health suffered further after he was sent off against Chelsea in 2025. Death threats aimed at members of his family added to the pressure, leaving him unable to continue dealing with the situation without help.

“It was a very difficult time,” Araujo told The Times. “I felt that what I needed to do was take a step back. I hadn’t felt right for a long time, and I wasn’t enjoying the thing I love most, which is football.”

The 27-year-old said he had initially found it difficult to discuss what he was experiencing, believing he had to remain strong. He ultimately decided to speak both to those closest to him and to mental health professionals.

“I realised I had to put my hand up, ask for help and talk not just to the people closest to me, but to professionals as well,” he said.

“Sometimes you bottle things up and try to be the strong man, but in life you have to talk about things and open up about what you’re going through.”

Barcelona gave Araujo time away from football in late November 2025. The club did not set a date for his return when the break began.

He resumed playing in early February 2026, appearing against Albacete in the Copa del Rey after spending roughly two months away from competitive football.

Araujo described the decision to take time out as “the best decision I’ve ever made”. Since returning, he has moved to Merseyside on loan and has quickly established himself as a popular figure among Liverpool supporters.

His account highlights the personal difficulties he experienced while continuing to perform for Barcelona, as well as the importance he placed on seeking help when he recognised that he was no longer enjoying football.

The defender said asking for support was necessary after a prolonged period in which anxiety had affected his wellbeing and eventually developed into depression.