Juan Sara’s comments about Marcelo Saracchi should resonate with plenty of Celtic supporters.
Celtic’s domestic double and Champions League qualification made Parkhead an attractive destination for any player this summer. That is exactly why Juan Sara believes Marcelo Saracchi would have welcomed a permanent move.
Saracchi may not have been a regular starter, but he still managed 27 appearances during Celtic’s domestic double-winning campaign and proved himself a dependable squad option whenever called upon.
Craig Gordon feels ‘injustice’ over Celtic’s title win?
What is he talking about? Let us know in the comments 👇
Juan Sara’s argument is supported by Saracchi’s Celtic record
Speaking about the left-back’s future, Sara told The Sunday Post, “I think Marcelo would be a great summer signing for Celtic.
“He did really well coming off the bench during his loan spell last season and it’s easy to see why Celtic would want him permanently.
“I’m sure Marcelo himself would love to stay longer in Scotland at a huge club like Celtic. He will be buzzing right now.
“At the end of the day, who wouldn’t want to sign for Celtic when they have just won a league and cup double and also have the excitement of Champions League football to look forward to? I know he was acting as back-up to Kieran Tierney, who was at Arsenal for a spell. So he will have learned a lot from that.
“But, if Celtic go and manage to do a deal to sign him this summer, I’m sure Marcelo could kick on and try and push hard to make that leftback spot his own.”
Sara’s assessment is difficult to dismiss. Saracchi arrived knowing he would have competition for places, yet he still managed 27 appearances during a domestic double-winning season. Players in those supporting roles are often overlooked, but Celtic’s trophy-winning campaign relied on depth as much as quality.
Why Saracchi’s return to Boca Juniors feels surprising
What makes the situation more surprising is that a permanent move appeared relatively achievable. Reports suggested Celtic held an option to buy fee that looked reasonable for a player who had already adapted to Scottish football and the demands of playing for the club.
Instead, no permanent deal materialised and Saracchi returned to Boca Juniors. That leaves Celtic needing to look elsewhere if they want additional depth at left-back.
There are no guarantees Saracchi would have become first choice. However, he had already shown he could contribute when required and understood the expectations that come with playing at Celtic.
Saracchi may never have become Celtic’s first-choice left-back. However, players who know the club, understand the expectations and contribute to trophy-winning seasons are not always easy to replace. That is why Sara’s comments feel particularly relevant now.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
