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Julian Araujo was slated to join the U.S. Men’s National Team for the annual January training camp as a member of the U-23 contingent, alongside LA Galaxy teammate Sebastian Lletget on the senior squad, but bad news for the defender, as U.S. Soccer announced Saturday he will not take part in the camp due to illness.
Two roster changes for the U-23 #USMNT:@PhilaUnion GK Matt Freese will replace David Ochoa@dcunited defender Donovan Pines will replace Julian Araujo.
— U.S. Soccer YNT (@USYNT) January 9, 2021
The express reason for his inability to participate is very general, but given the state of our world right now, it seems entirely possible that this is coronavirus-related. Most of the time, an illness-related absence would lead to a short delay in reporting, not involuntarily declining a call-up altogether, but that is pure speculation at this point, and it’s unclear what the specific illness is.
Regardless, hopefully it is not a serious ailment and Araujo makes a full recovery. And he’s still got a very bright future for club and country, if he continues to grow. Get well soon, Julian.
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