One way LA Galaxy’s Julián Araujo could still move to Barcelona

On the final day of the January transfer window, Mexican full-back Julián Araujo saw his dream move to Barcelona threaten to collapse at the last minute, with FIFA launching an investigation into the transfer in order to determine whether it would be given the green light. On Friday, world soccer’s governing body revealed the results.

18 seconds: why did Julián Araújo’s move from LA Galaxy to Barcelona collapse?

FIFA ultimately ruled that the 21-year-old’s move to Barça wouldn’t be allowed to go through, with a ‘computer error’ causing Araujo’s current club LA Galaxy and La Blaugrana to fail to complete the required paperwork by just 18 seconds.

“FIFA can confirm that the transfer of player Julián Araujo from LA Galaxy to FC Barcelona was not completed in line with the applicable regulations,” a FIFA spokesperson told ESPN.

Similarly, MLS journalist Tom Bogert says that despite the fact that LA Galaxy and Barcelona had worked together to prove that an error had caused the delay, FIFA was left unconvinced by that argument, ultimately leading to the transfer collapsing and Araujo staying put.

As a result, the Mexican international, who also featured in friendly match for the USMNT in 2020, will have to wait at least six more months if he is to leave the Galaxy and begin his European adventure in Catalonia.

The last resort for Juilán Araujo to move to Barcelona

Despite the fact that the transfer has not been ratified, Araujo would be willing to go to Barcelona and train with the Catalans despite not being able to play. He would, however, initially train with Barcelona Atlètic, who are coached by former Mexico defender Rafael Márquez.

The most likely scenario is that Araujo remains with LA Galaxy for the start of 2023 MLS season and another discussion around his future will be had next summer. The big question is, will Barcelona come back in for him or has his chance gone?