Julian Araujo’s recent injury might initially feel like another frustrating headache for underperforming Celtic and manager Martin O’Neill.
But when looking at the broader picture, it could actually be a massive blessing in disguise ahead of a much-needed summer clearout at Celtic.
The Mexican international’s untimely setback provides the powers that be with some immediate clarity regarding their upcoming summer transfer business.
While the on-loan Bournemouth defender has performed reasonably well following his January switch to Parkhead, let’s be brutally honest: he simply hasn’t done enough to justify the hefty price tag a permanent transfer would inevitably demand.
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Will Araujo return to Celtic for the title run in?
Or are we reading too much into this?
Alistair Johnston is still ahead of Julian Araujo at Celtic
Had Araujo stayed fully fit and continued to feature prominently during the crucial title run-in, the Celtic hierarchy might have been tempted into shelling out big bucks for a player who, realistically, does not even get into the club’s strongest starting XI.
Up to £10 million has been suggested for Araujo, and Charlie Mulgrew has previously voiced that such a deal shouldn’t go ahead.
And let’s be honest, Celtic have been down this road before because this was how Adam Idah was signed, and he didn’t last long in Glasgow after his permanent £9.5 million transfer in 2024.
The reality is that the right-back spot should be the absolute least of the club’s worries as the champions of Scotland prepare for a comprehensive squad overhaul.
When the 2026/27 season kicks off, Alistair Johnston will finally be fully recovered and ready to go after his deeply frustrating injury problems this term.
Make no mistake, a fully fit and firing Johnston is comfortably a better option than Araujo. The Canadian remains the undisputed first choice for that defensive flank.
And then there is Colby Donovan…
Then you have Celtic’s highly-rated academy star Colby Donovan, who has produced a breakthrough campaign during a turbulent season for all.
Blocking the youngster’s natural development to sign an expensive backup makes zero financial or footballing sense.
Araujo’s spell in Glasgow has certainly had its positive moments, especially during Celtic’s Scottish Cup win at Rangers.
But his unfortunate injury has ultimately made the board’s summer decision incredibly easy.
By passing on this deal, Celtic can redirect those vital funds toward the striking and midfield areas that are genuinely broken.
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