Captain Ronald Araujo has been granted indefinite leave by Barcelona following a request for a period of absence.

The Uruguay international's representatives held discussions with club sporting director Deco on Monday after the defender was not part of the matchday squad for Saturday's 3-1 La Liga victory over Alaves at Spotify Camp Nou.

Araujo was sent off in Barcelona's Champions League loss at Chelsea

After being sent off in Barcelona’s 3-0 defeat against Chelsea in the Champions League last Tuesday, Araujo was absent as his side secured a victory over Alaves which sent them top of La Liga.

A double from Dani Olmo and a strike from Lamine Yamal helped Hansi Flick’s side rise to the summit ahead of Real Madrid, who stayed in second place after drawing 1-1 with Girona on Sunday.

With Araujo missing, left-back Gerard Martin had to step into the centre of defence alongside youngster Pau Cubarsi.

And according to The Athletic, Araujo has now been allowed to take a break following a request from his agents.

The report states Barcelona chief Deco granted the 28-year-old’s wish to step away from football as the club remain committed to giving him the time he needs to recover.

Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo reported earlier on Monday that Araujo lodged the request because he does not believe he can deliver for Barcelona at the moment.

The report added the centre-back feared he would “hurt” the team if he tried to force himself to play.

While refusing to go into detail as to why Araujo requested a period of absence, Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick said ahead of Tuesday’s clash with Atletico Madrid: “It is a private situation, I don’t want to say more. And please, if you can respect it I’d appreciate it.”

Barcelona president Laporta says Araujo has been treated unfairly of late

Flick’s comments came after Barcelona president Joan Laporta said Araujo had been treated unfairly in recent weeks and that the club were “behind him”.

Speaking at an event in Andorra on Friday, Laporta said: “He has been heavily criticised, and I don’t think that’s fair. He gives his all on the pitch, he’s our captain, and now he needs to get through this difficult period because he’s a very emotional person with strong feelings.

“He’s had a tough time, and I want to tell him that we’re behind him, that he needs to turn the page because here we all win and we all lose, and no one person is responsible for defeats or victories.”