Julian Araujo has broken his silence after confirmation his Celtic season is over, with the defender taking to social media to address supporters following his latest injury setback.
The Mexican right-back will not feature again this campaign after re-injuring himself during rehabilitation with Bournemouth. It brings a frustrating loan spell to an abrupt end at the worst possible time for both player and club.
There had been hope Araujo could still play a part in the run-in.
Instead, Celtic are now forced to push on without him, while the player himself is left reflecting on what might have been during his time in Glasgow.
Posting on Instagram, Araujo shared a heartfelt message as he came to terms with the situation:
“I don’t have all the answers right now, but I trust that everything happens for a reason and that God is guiding every step of this journey.
I’m truly grateful to Celtic Football Club for welcoming me from day one and making Glasgow feel like home. Wearing this badge and experiencing the passion, history, and energy of this club is something I’ll carry with me forever.
To my teammates and coaches – thank you for everything we shared this season. I’ll be behind you all the way and have no doubt in what this group can achieve.
This isn’t the way I imagined this season ending, but it’s part of the story. I’ll take this moment, grow through it and come back stronger than ever. 💚🍀”
It is a classy and emotional message from a player who quickly became a fan favourite for his performances as well as his big personality which shone through in the Glasgow Derbies.
Araujo’s attacking intent from right-back offered Celtic something different at times this season. His willingness to get forward and stretch play suited the system, particularly when the team were on the front foot. His goal at Rugby Park could still prove pivotal if the Hoops find a way to win this title.
With no option to buy and his loan expiring in the summer, there is every chance he has already played his final game in a Celtic shirt.
When it comes to the right back position, Alistair Johnston is battling back from his own issues, while Anthony Ralston looks set to shoulder the burden in the immediate term with Colby Donovan’s fitness being monitored. It is far from ideal, especially with little margin for error in the title race.
There is no time to dwell.
Celtic face St Mirren on Saturday afternoon knowing only a win will do as they try to stay alive in the hunt with six games remaining.
Right now, though, one thing is impossible to ignore. The right-back position at Celtic this season looks completely cursed.
