GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - MARCH 08: Celtic's Julian Araujo celebrates after winning the penalty shootout during a Scottish Gas Scottish Cup Quarter-Final match between Rangers and Celtic at Ibrox Stadium, on March 08, 2026, in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Craig Williamson/SNS Group via Getty Images)
Julian Araujo has made an emotional Facebook page with his Celtic season at an end.
In all likelihood his Celtic career is also at an end.
After coming in on loan at the start of January it is unlikely that the Mexican will be part of Celtic’s plans next season.
In just 13 appearances Araujo certainly made his mark on Celtic- especially the support.
Not many ‘careers’ are shorter but it was quality over quantity as Araujo joined the hoops at the worst possible time.
His move was announced on January 2, he made his debut the following day in a dismal 3-1 defeat in the Glasgow Derby.
Two days later Araujo was under new management with Martin O’Neill.
CELTIC AND THE SEASON OF INJURIES
Ironically his last Celtic appearance was in another Glasgow Derby as Celtic won an eventful Scottish Cup tie.
Three out of his 13 Celtic appearances were in the Glasgow Derby- with a dramatic stoppage time winner away to Kilmarnock sandwiched in-between.
Alas, there won’t be any further appearances, this season at least.
After a setback at Bournemouth Araujo turned to Facebook to share his reaction:
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
Araujo was last seen going up the tunnel at Ibrox having a lively exchange with an angry home supporter.
Signed as a stand-in for Alistair Johnston his aggressive defending and enthusiasm quickly earned the backing of supporters.
Fans were discussing and comparing both players, some debated whether Araujo should be a summer signing.
A £9m transfer fee from Barcelona and a contract that runs until 2028 makes that seem unlikely.
Those sort of obstacles make a move to Celtic unlikely but a loan deal next season is a possibility. After virtually no playing time at Bournemouth Araujo has salvaged something from this season through his brief and eventful Celtic stint.
After the impact of his short spell at Celtic it wouldn’t be a shock to see the Mexican back watching his old team-mates this season.
Hopefully we can see him again,more likely on loan as this board has shown it hates to part with money.