Julián Araujo looks set to leave AFC Bournemouth in the January transfer window after informing the club of his decision to move on. According to reports from 365Scores in Mexico, the defender’s entourage has communicated his desire to join another European side in search of regular football ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The 23-year-old Mexico international joined Bournemouth in August 2024 but endured a frustrating debut season, missing over 140 days through injury. He played just 501 minutes across 13 appearances last term and has featured only once this season — in the Cherries’ EFL Cup defeat to Brentford in August.
Manager Andoni Iraola recently urged the right-back to “keep fighting” for his place, but his public message appears to have had no effect on Araujo’s stance. The player remains determined to find a new club in January where he can play consistently and rebuild momentum ahead of the international calendar.
Iraola’s plea falls flat
Earlier this month, Iraola acknowledged Araujo’s difficult situation, admitting he was “not happy” with the defender’s lack of opportunities. However, Bournemouth’s current defensive depth has made it hard for the former Barcelona man to break into the lineup.
“He’s a good player who’s been unlucky with injuries. I just want him to keep pushing because we will need him.” — Andoni Iraola (September 2025)
Despite the manager’s encouragement, Araujo and his representatives have now taken matters into their own hands. Reports suggest Bournemouth are open to reviewing potential loan offers in January rather than forcing the player to stay.
Julián Araujo – Bournemouth Record
Stat (2024/25) | Julián Araujo |
---|---|
Appearances | 13 |
Minutes Played | 501 |
Assists | 1 |
Clean Sheets Involved | 3 |
source: sofascore match data – 20 October 2025
Injuries and competition have stunted Araujo’s development, and his single appearance this campaign — a cup loss — underlines how far down the pecking order he currently sits.
Our View: Araujo needs a reset
In our view, Araujo’s situation at Bournemouth has reached a natural crossroads. The Mexican right-back, once tipped as a long-term prospect, hasn’t had the chance to showcase his potential under Iraola. With the 2026 World Cup on home soil, his desire for consistent minutes is understandable.
A European loan move could provide the perfect reset. If he stays fit and plays regularly, Araujo can put himself back on the radar of both the Mexico national team and top-flight clubs.
Analyst Verdict
I think Araujo’s January exit feels inevitable. For Bournemouth, it’s a chance to free up wages and give the player the opportunity he clearly craves. For Araujo, regular game time elsewhere could reignite the promise that once made him a standout youth talent at LA Galaxy and Barcelona.
As FootballPlace analyst John William notes: “He’s still young and has a lot to offer. Sometimes, stepping away is the best way to step forward.”
Key Insights
- Julián Araujo and his entourage have told Bournemouth he wants to leave in January
- The right-back has made just one appearance this season
- Iraola’s plea for him to stay hasn’t changed his mind
- Bournemouth open to analysing potential loan offers in winter
- Araujo willing to take a pay cut to secure regular football in Europe
What’s Next
Bournemouth will assess their squad options before sanctioning any move, but a January exit now looks likely. Spanish and Portuguese clubs are reportedly among those monitoring the situation.
Araujo’s camp remain hopeful a deal can be agreed early in the window, allowing him to settle quickly and earn consistent minutes before next summer’s international fixtures.
👉 Should Bournemouth let Julián Araujo leave in January or give him another chance under Iraola?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *