Julian Araujo posted a cryptic message to his Instagram story this week as the defender returned to Bournemouth to receive treatment for his injury.
Taking to social media last night, he posted a quote from bible verse Genesis 19:17. It reads:
"What God left behind will never be better than what lies ahead."
Could this be a message hinting at his enjoyment of his time at Celtic? Or maybe an indicator that he is on his way back to Bournemouth on a permanent basis?
What does the message mean?
The quote was plastered over a photo of him celebrating at Ibrox in front of Rangers fans in the hoops, so it makes sense to take this as him reminiscing on good Celtic memories. Supporters quickly fell in love with the player, and it seemed he shared that; videos of him celebrating in a Glasgow bar after the result against the Gers made that clear.
Even his fellow Bournemouth teammate and former Celt Ryan Christie said he had spoken to Araujo and the Mexican told him that he "absolutely loved" his time in Glasgow. "Loved" could be an indicator that he is on his way out.
If he really is set to return to his parent club permanently, that could disappoint a lot of Hoops fans. People were hoping that a deal for the player would be struck that would keep him at Parkhead after this season, but that may be unlikely now.
Of course, only time will tell. All we know is that we'll likely be without him for at least another game after the international break, with Martin O'Neill hinting that the time off may not be enough for a full recovery.
Joining the injury list
Araujo joins an injury list that is quite extensive for Celtic. The club currently have a lot of players out, including the likes of starting defender Cameron Carter-Vickers and winger Jota.
The full list of injured players:
- Kasper Schmeichel - Out for the season
- Alistair Johnston - Out until April
- Araujo - Out until April
- Carter-Vickers - Out for the season
- Adam Montgomery - Out until April
- Arne Engels - Out until April
- Jota - Out for the season
- Cvancara - Expected to return soon
- Callum Osmand - Unknown (Possible April return)
With that many squad members out, it's hard for Celtic fans not to feel pessimistic. However, things may soon look up, with the returns of key players such as Engels and Johnston expected very soon. They'll be able to help us out in the split, and hopefully, Araujo will be fit in time to have an impact too.