News'Of course I watched' – Ronald Araujo on Luis Suarez inspiration and Darwin Nunez message
Ronald Araujo has revealed the Liverpool FC inspiration provided to him by fellow Uruguayans Luis Suarez and Darwin Nunez.
The defender became the Reds’ newest recruit on Monday by completing the formalities of his season-long loan move at the AXA Training Centre.
Araujo joins Andoni Iraola’s squad from La Liga outfit FC Barcelona, subject to a successful work permit application and international clearance.
The 27-year-old will become the fourth player from Uruguay to represent Liverpool, following in the footsteps of Suarez, Sebastian Coates and Nunez.
Asked about any memories of watching compatriot Suarez during his unforgettable spell at Anfield from 2011 to 2014, Araujo told Liverpoolfc.com: “Of course I did.
“We loved watching the English Premier League and everyone in Uruguay gets up early in the morning to catch the games.
“Of course as a kid I used to watch Luis playing all those fantastic games for Liverpool. We all know what he achieved, the history that he made within this club during his time here. So it’s fantastic.
“From minute one, I’ve been sort of asked about that kind of comparison since I’ve arrived here. I get on really well with him, we’re quite close.
“Just a few minutes ago I got a good luck message from him saying all the best, you’ve joined a great club and all the very best for your time here.”
Araujo’s close friend Nunez has also expressed his well wishes publicly via social media – alongside giving him a private insight into what to expect from his new supporters.
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“A big thank you for the message from Darwin,” the centre-back added. “He’s a good mate of mine. We’ve known each other and played together since we were kids, basically.
“He’s always spoken highly of Liverpool, for sure. When you’re out with Darwin, people are always shouting his name and things like that.
“He’s told me about how the fans would recognise him and say, ‘Nunez, Nunez!’”