Liverpool seems to have hit the mark with Araujo

Liverpool's decision to bring Ronald Araujo in on loan from Barcelona was met with some skepticism, especially given the Anfield club's long-standing lack of success with short-term signings. The examples are numerous: Arthur Melo, Ozan Kabak, Steven Caulker, Javier Manquillo, Victor Moses, Aly Cissokho, Nuri Sahin, Emiliano Insua… One has to go back quite a way – to 2007 – to find a truly successful loan transfer for Liverpool. That year, Javier Mascherano was initially brought in this way from West Ham, after which Liverpool purchased his rights, a move that proved incredibly valuable.

It's still too early to fully assess Araujo, but he has made an impressive start in his first two matches as a starter for Liverpool – against Ipswich in the Premier League and even more so in yesterday's Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid. In both games, the Uruguayan operated as a right-back, and besides performing solidly in defense, he also contributed well to his team's attacks. Yesterday, he even registered a brilliant assist for Dominik Szoboszlai's goal. The Merseyside fans were captivated by Araujo's performance, voting him Man of the Match, and in their comments, many urged that he become Liverpool's first winter transfer, with the club activating his purchase clause of 55 million euros.

One thing is clear: for now, it seems Araujo is making the most of his opportunity, especially considering Jeremy Frimpong's subpar performances in the season's opening matches. The Uruguayan himself also claims to be very happy and motivated, so his transfer could prove beneficial for all parties involved.

“It was great. I was lucky that the ball went between the center-backs and that goal happened. I'm happy to have helped my team with an assist, to have contributed.

Liverpool is a big team like Barca, and you always have to give your best. The demands are high, but everything is going well. I am very happy, I work hard, and it shows on the pitch. I can't wait to give even more and just be myself.

Without a doubt, I follow Barca. They are flying high right now. I am very happy for my teammates. They are a great team and are contenders to win the Champions League,” Araujo stated after yesterday's match.