Araujo Warns Argentina, Says Uruguay Will Exploit Messi’s Absence

Uruguay defender Ronald Araujo has warned Argentina that his team intends to exploit the absence of Lionel Messi when both countries meet in an international friendly on Friday.

The two South American rivals are scheduled to face each other at La Bombonera, with the encounter marking Argentina’s first match since Messi announced his retirement from international football.

Speaking to reporters at Carrasco Airport in Montevideo after joining Uruguay’s squad, Araujo acknowledged the significance of Messi’s departure but said his team would seek to benefit from the situation.

“In the end, they have lost the best player in the world, and we are going to take advantage of that,” he said.

The defender, who previously played alongside Messi at Barcelona, however, recognised that Argentina remained a formidable opponent despite the absence of their long-serving captain.

He noted that the reigning world champions still possessed several talented players, particularly among their younger generation.

Araujo added that matches against Argentina were always difficult but expressed confidence in Uruguay’s ability to compete and demonstrate their style of football.

The defender also revealed that he had exchanged friendly banter with Liverpool teammate Alexis Mac Allister ahead of the encounter.

Meanwhile, Uruguay midfielder Federico Valverde recalled the team's 2-0 victory over Argentina at La Bombonera in November 2023, describing the occasion as an unforgettable experience.

Valverde expressed hope that Uruguay could reproduce a similar performance, although his participation in Friday’s match remained uncertain due to a physical complaint.

Uruguay will approach the fixture seeking to strengthen their performance under new head coach Diego Forlan, following their group-stage elimination at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.