Celtic interim manager Martin O’Neill confirmed that right-back
Julián Araujo was unavailable for the Premiership clash against Motherwell at Celtic Park due to a thigh problem.
The Mexican international was left out of the matchday squad as a precaution after feeling tightness following Celtic’s dramatic Scottish Cup quarter-final victory over Rangers at Ibrox last weekend.
O’Neill Explains Injury Concern
Speaking to BBC Sportsound before the match, O’Neill explained the club’s decision to leave Araujo out rather than risk aggravating the issue.
“Julian has picked up an injury during the course of the week. He felt very tight after Sunday’s game against Rangers and he’s felt a little bit of pain in his thigh. We felt there was no point risking him today.”
The Celtic boss also revealed that the 24 year old had continued to feel discomfort during training sessions earlier in the week.
With a demanding schedule ahead, the club opted for caution rather than rushing the defender back into action.
Araujo’s Impact Since January Arrival
Araujo joined Celtic on loan from Bournemouth in January and has quickly established himself as an important player on the right side of defence.
In just over two months, the Mexican international has made 13 appearances for the Hoops, impressing supporters with his pace, attacking runs and defensive energy.
One of his most memorable moments came earlier in the season when he scored a dramatic late winner against Kilmarnock. He also played a full 120 minutes during the chaotic Scottish Cup encounter against Rangers at Ibrox.
Those performances have made him a popular figure among Celtic supporters.
Lineup Changes for Motherwell Match
With Araujo unavailable, young academy defender Colby Donovan was handed a starting opportunity at right-back.
Celtic’s starting lineup featured several changes from the team that played at Ibrox.
Starting XI: Sinisalo; Donovan; Arthur; Scales; Tierney; Hatate; Oxlade-Chamberlain; Nygren; Yang; Tounekti; Maeda.
Experienced defender Kieran Tierney returned at left-back, while Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain started in midfield.
Celtic were also without Callum McGregor, who continues to recover from a calf injury, along with other players currently unavailable due to suspension or longer term fitness concerns.
Celtic Secure Important Victory
Despite the absence of Araujo, Celtic produced a strong second-half performance to defeat Motherwell 3-1.
Yang Hyun-jun scored twice for the Hoops, while Tomáš Čvančara converted a penalty after a VAR review led to a red card for a Motherwell defender.
The win keeps Celtic firmly in the Premiership title race and maintains pressure on league leaders Hearts.
Right-Back Options Going Forward
If Araujo’s thigh issue keeps him out longer than expected, O’Neill still has several options available.
Colby Donovan impressed with his opportunity and could continue to feature, while experienced defender Anthony Ralston remains another reliable option.
Meanwhile, Alistair Johnston is still recovering from a hamstring injury and is expected to return later in the month.
Looking Ahead
Celtic’s medical staff will continue to monitor Araujo’s recovery over the coming days. If the problem is simply tightness, the defender could return quickly. However, the club will be cautious to avoid turning a minor issue into a longer term injury.
With the Premiership title race entering its decisive stage, maintaining squad fitness will be crucial for the Hoops.