JULIAN ARAUJO played only 13 games for Celtic following his loan arrival from Bournemouth in January.
In such a short space of time, the California-born Mexico international defender made a remarkable and lasting impression on the Hoops fans.
Injury has prematurely ended the exciting right-back’s stay at the champions with Martin O’Neill reporting the loss of the player “as real blow”, as CQN reported yesterday.
Araujo’s all-action style, determined tackling and relentless runs on the touchline made him an instant hit with the club’s followers.
MEXICAN RAVE…Julian Araujo celebrates his stoppage-time winner at Kilmarnock.
And he found a place in their hearts when he rifled in the stoppage-time winner against Kilmarnock at Rugby Park in February and made a beeline towards the travelling support to celebrate sealing three precious points in the Hoops’ ongoing pursuit of the fifth title.
Araujo has taken to his Instagram to send a heartfelt message to the fans.
The 24-year-old back-four operator said: “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.
HEAVEN IN GOVAN…a joyous Julian Araujo joins the fans after Celtic’s Scottish Cup penalty-kick triumph at Ibrox.
“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.”
A classy farewell from a stylish performer. We wish him the very best on his football travels.
* DON’T miss the unbeatable match report from Celtic v St Mirren this afternoon – only in your champion CQN.
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