Julian Araujo has spoken about working under Martin O’Neill after the manager returned to Celtic following Wilfried Nancy’s sacking.
Araujo arrived at Celtic during a period of uncertainty. He had joined the squad shortly before the managerial switch and was quickly asked to adapt. His early appearances have come during a demanding stretch of the season.
The right-back made his debut from the bench against Rangers before earning a start the following week. His first full game arrived under O’Neill rather than the manager who brought him to the club. That shift required quick adjustment both on and off the pitch.
Despite limited time working with the new staff, Araujo spoke with clarity about what he has seen so far. His comments offered insight into how the squad has responded to O’Neill’s return. The focus remained on structure, clarity and shared understanding.
He said: (Celtic FC YouTube), “He’s a legend here. I knew what he meant to the club. He’s similar to my national team manager, very simple with the basics and everyone knows their role.
“He gives you confidence but also puts you under pressure because he knows what you’re capable of.
“I’ve only been with him a couple of days, but from what I’ve seen, he’s a good man and a good manager.
“I think it’s confidence. We all knew the situation we were in, so it was about getting past that. We take it one game at a time.
“When we lose the ball, we try to get it back quickly and attack fast.
“It’s about everyone being on the same page.”
Araujo’s words reflect the wider mood within the squad after a turbulent period. Players have spoken about clarity returning in recent days. That clarity has shown itself in both performances and body language.
The defender’s own role has also become more defined. Operating in a back four, he has been given clear instructions and responsibility. That has allowed him to focus on his game rather than the wider noise.
Celtic’s response on the pitch has helped settle nerves around the club. The performance against Dundee United was controlled and disciplined. For new players, that kind of environment can ease early pressure.
O’Neill’s return has not been about major tactical shifts. The emphasis has been on basics, effort and understanding roles. That approach appears to have landed quickly with players like Araujo.
For a new signing, stability matters as much as opportunity. Araujo has already experienced change that many players avoid in an entire season. How he responds to that will shape his time at the club.
The coming weeks will demand consistency from the squad. Celtic face a busy schedule with little room for error. Every player will be required to stay focused on the collective task.
Araujo’s comments suggest a squad moving in the same direction. Confidence, clarity and shared purpose have returned to the foreground. Whether that continues will be tested soon enough.
