The Uruguay international has made an immediate impression since joining Liverpool on loan from Barcelona, contributing in the Champions League and adapting to a role outside his preferred position at centre-back.
Araujo assisted Dominik Szoboszlai’s equaliser in the win over Atlético Madrid before scoring in Liverpool’s victory against LASK. His involvement represents a striking change for a defender who had recorded only one goal contribution in his previous 35 Champions League appearances.
With Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley unavailable, Araujo is expected to continue at right-back for Tuesday’s meeting with Villarreal at Anfield. The 27-year-old is comfortable with the adjustment, having played in the position on several occasions for Barcelona.
“It’s not a problem as I’d already played there a few times,” he said.
“When I made the decision to come here I knew it was one of the possibilities to play as a right-back, so it’s not something different for me.
“Ultimately I try to give everything I can no matter what position I am in, no matter what the manager asks of me.
“I’m not going to deny I don’t feel more comfortable at centre-back but at the end of the day it’s not a difficult position for me.”
His willingness to adapt has helped him settle quickly at Liverpool, where his physical approach and competitiveness have won over supporters. Araujo said the scale of the club had impressed him even though he arrived with experience of the demands at Barcelona.
“It surprises me because you know how big Liverpool are but when you get here and see the dimension of this club, the structure, the fans, you know it’s a gigantic team,” he said.
“Coming to Liverpool, it’s not easy. There are those demands, that responsibility. Personally I’d already experienced that in Barcelona, where you have to give your best in every game.”
The defender has also appreciated the welcome he has received from supporters, and says he wants to repay that backing through his performances rather than looking too far ahead.
“I’m very happy because I’ve been welcomed not just by the people at the club but the fans. I am very grateful to them. I want to give back to them by giving everything in training and every match.”
Araujo believes Liverpool have the quality to compete across their four competitions, although he acknowledged that results have not always reflected the team’s potential.
“I really do believe we have a great side, a team with great players in it with great potential. We can compete for all four competitions we are in. It’s a long season but we are on the right path. We are working well despite not having great results. We have potential to grow.”
His loan agreement includes an option for Liverpool to make the move permanent for a reported £47 million. Araujo, however, is focused on establishing himself before considering his long-term future.
“It’s very early to talk about these things,” he said. “I’m just trying to enjoy every day, continue to grow and develop every day to have that confidence.”
For now, the immediate challenge is Villarreal, with Araujo ready to continue wherever Iraola needs him.