Iraola full of praise for Araujo: "I'm very happy for him" at Liverpool

A Uruguayan arrives from Barcelona, earns a starting job almost immediately, and on top of that plays in two different positions. That, in a nutshell, is the picture of what's happening with Ronald Araujo at Liverpool, and the manager himself put it into words this Friday.

Andoni Iraola made no secret of his satisfaction when discussing the Uruguayan defender, who was officially unveiled on August 10 as a new Reds player. Since then, Araujo hasn't just settled in quickly, he's forced his way into the starting eleven and has been putting in performances that are already turning heads in England.

"I'm very happy for him," the Spanish coach said plainly.

Iraola went further, explaining why he believes the move is working out so well for the Uruguayan:

Ronald needed this change and he's arrived with humility. He's an experienced player from a big club, ready to play in different positions.Andoni Iraola

That bit about "playing in different positions" is no small detail. Iraola himself has tested him both at center back and at right back, and in both spots the former Barcelona man has delivered without making a fuss, which is often the best way to respond when you've just landed in a new locker room.

Extra motivation: the language as the next challenge

Beyond the tactical side, it's clear the manager values the player's attitude. He spoke about his "spirit" and revealed he's already given him a task to complete in order to get even more out of his experience.

I like his spirit. I'm now encouraging him to learn the language so we can make the most of his experience.Andoni Iraola

It makes sense: a player with Araujo's background, seasoned at a big club like Barcelona, brings something that isn't always reflected in the stats. But for that leadership to carry over into the locker room and not just onto the field, communication matters. Iraola seems well aware of that, and little by little he's pushing that part of the process along.

For now, the football side of things is settled: a starting spot earned, versatility proven, and a manager who has no problem praising him in public. The rest, as Iraola himself says, is just a matter of time and picking up a few new words.