Ronald Araujo hits back at Ilkay Gundogan with 'codes and values' message after Barcelona midfielder's scathing criticism of defender's red card in Champions League defeat to PSG

Barcelona's Champions League journey came to an end as they were eliminated by PSG, despite winning the first leg of their quarter-final tie in France 3-2. Raphinha extended Barca's lead to 4-2 on aggregate in the return leg before Araujo's expulsion changed the course of the match. His red card for a foul on Bradley Barcola opened the floodgates and PSG ended up scoring four goals, to secure their spot in the semi-finals.

Gundogan criticised his teammates for conceding the tie to PSG and questioned Araujo's decision to challenge Barcola inside the box.

"You know, in these kind of crucial moments you need to be sure to get the ball," Guardiola told CBS Sports. "If you don't, and again I don't know if he touched the ball or not, you need to stay away. I would prefer to concede a goal there or give the striker 1v1. Although, the ball was played quite far ahead so I don't even know if he would have reached the ball. But, maybe let our goalkeeper save us or even concede a goal because to go a player down so early on just kills your game."

While responding to Gundogan's remarks, Araujo maintained his composure and refrained from engaging in a public dispute but did not appear too impressed. He told reporters, "I prefer to keep what I think to myself. I have codes and values that must be respected.”

However, he tendered an apology to Barcelona fans and said: "I am sad, like all Barcelona fans, because of the red card. The shot was 50-50 and the referee made the decision. It hurts. To the young fans of Barcelona, I tell them we are very sorry and that is how football is. We are Barcelona and we have a very good young group, which will fight for the Champions League next year, and I am sure we will bring them a lot of joy."

After being ousted from the Champions League, Araujo has shifted his focus to conquering Spain with a "revenge" match against leaders Real Madrid lined up next. The Uruguayan is well aware that a victory at the Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday will help Barca educe the deficit to five points and he is ready to give his all.

“We treat El Clasico as an important revenge," he said. "We must change our mentality and we have a chance to compete for the league, which is the competition that remains for us. I think we have the chance to win El Clasico. We have to fight the League until the end. If we win, we will cut points. There are mathematical options and we have to fight."