Julián Araujo hasn’t had time to catch his breath since arriving at Celtic—and already he’s staring down the biggest fixture in Scottish football.

The Mexican international completed his loan move from Bournemouth on New Year’s Day and could be pitched straight into the fire this afternoon as Celtic take on Rangers in the Glasgow Derby. No easing in. No gentle introduction. Just straight into the madness.

“Do or Die” – Christie’s Derby Reality Check

Araujo arrives from Bournemouth, where former Celtic midfielder Ryan Christie now plays, and it didn’t take long for Christie to give him the full Old Firm warning.

Christie knows exactly what these games are like, having faced Rangers 15 times during his Celtic career. Results didn’t always go his way, but the former Hoops man made one thing crystal clear to the new signing: this fixture is different.

“Ryan told me it’s a do or die game,” Araujo revealed.
“This is what people in Glasgow live for.”

That’s the reality every Celtic player learns quickly—nothing else matters when Rangers are in town.

Mexican Seal of Approval From Efraín Juárez

Araujo also spoke about conversations with fellow Mexican and former Celtic player Efraín Juárez, who wore the Hoops between 2010 and 2012.

Despite limited appearances, Juárez still holds Celtic close to his heart—and he made sure Araujo understood exactly what the club represents.

“I already knew Celtic is a big club. It’s a historic club,” Araujo said.
“Efraín Juárez spoke very highly of the club and told me what it would be like.
It hasn’t been surprising. This club is what it is because of the people around it.”

Words that will strike a chord with every supporter.

Built for Games Like This

If Celtic fans are wondering whether Araujo is ready for the pressure, his own words should offer reassurance.

“In Mexican culture, these are the games we’re born to play in,” he said.
“These are the games I’ve been waiting for my whole life.”

That hunger. That edge. That’s exactly what supporters want to hear on derby day.

Chance to Win the Celtic Support in One Afternoon

Thrown into a white-hot atmosphere against Rangers, Araujo has the chance to make an immediate impact. A solid performance—or better still, a result—would see him instantly embraced by the Celtic support.

And in doing so, he could also ease the growing pressure on Wilfried Nancy.

One game. One performance. One chance to announce himself to Paradise.

Welcome to the Old Firm.