Mexico‘s international player Julián Araujo is doubtful for the World Cup after Celtic manager Martin O’Neill confirmed on Friday that he will miss the remainder of the Scottish Premiership season.
O’Neill stated, “Julián reinjured himself while under supervision at Bournemouth, which was quite disappointing.” Araujo, a right-back on loan from the Premier League club, is unlikely to return this season. O’Neill added, “I discovered this information today… I don’t anticipate we will see him again this season. I’m uncertain how this affects his World Cup chances, but it seems he is done for us this season if the injury he has re-aggravated is the same one.”
The defender, originally from the U.S., established himself with Celtic in 2026 but sustained a thigh injury during a Scottish Cup quarterfinal event against Rangers last month.
Since joining in the winter window, Araujo quickly became a key player, making 13 appearances across competitions, including a dramatic game-winning goal in February.
Despite not having played for Mexico since last summer and not being a lock for the World Cup, Araujo’s prospects were improving in a competitive race for a position in El Tri‘s lineup.
Friday’s announcement presents another challenge for the national team, which is already grappling with a series of injury setbacks.
Earlier in the spring, both backup goalkeeper Ángel Malagón and starting midfielder Marcel Ruiz sustained injuries that will prevent them from participating in the World Cup, although there are indications that Ruiz might recover in time.
Moreover, key players like Edson Álvarez, Rodrigo Huescas, and César Huerta are still sidelined due to injuries that arose during the winter period.
Conversely, players like Mateo Chávez, Gilberto Mora, Santi Gimenez, and Luis Chávez have recently recovered but have limited time to build form before the World Cup arrives.
With Araujo’s injury, Mexico’s coach Javier Aguirre faces yet another challenge as he readies the team for their tournament opener against South Africa on June 11.
During the group stage, Mexico will also compete against South Korea on June 18 and Czechia on June 24.