Marcelo Saracchi has opened up on his emotional Celtic exit and refused to rule out a stunning return to Parkhead. The Uruguay international became a cult hero during a season-long loan from Boca Juniors, playing a pivotal role in the title win with a game-changing cameo on the final day. Manager Martin O'Neill publicly expressed interest in signing the defender permanently, with a £1.5million deal seemingly close.
However, after weeks of negotiations stalled, Saracchi gave up hope and moved to MLS side Houston Dynamo. In an exclusive interview with Record Sport, the Double-winning star has spoken for the first time about his transfer heartache.
Transfer Heartache
Asked if he felt let down that Celtic didn't do more to keep him, Saracchi said: "Yeah. It seemed like Martin was really interested and keen on keeping me. I explained the situation to them that I wanted to give respect and time to the people in Houston as well. But it did feel like the negotiations were going long. I did explain my situation and I know Martin was really interested in bringing me back."
After returning to Boca in the summer, Saracchi was deemed surplus to requirements and banished from first-team training. The ex-RB Leipzig and Galatasaray ace attracted interest from clubs across Europe, but his priority was always Celtic. However, after a tentative loan enquiry from the Hoops was swiftly dismissed by Boca, the Scottish champions never put an official offer on the table.
Unfinished Business
Saracchi later posted a heartfelt letter to fans explaining his decision, revealing he was "truly gutted". He now says his burning desire to return wasn't reciprocated by the club's hierarchy. He said: "I feel like going to a team where they want you, not going to a team where they don't want you. I felt like there wasn't much interest or maybe they just didn't count on me being an important player."
Despite the heartbreak, Saracchi hasn't closed the door on Celtic. He said: "Do I hope I'll be able to play for Celtic again? I think yes. Honestly, the story with me and Celtic isn't finished yet. I would like to go back. But like I said, it's just on their end to see their interest and their intention in wanting me there. But things could change. There are always solutions, so I think yes."
Life in Houston
Saracchi is now plying his trade in the MLS with Houston Dynamo, where he briefly linked up with Invincible Treble-winner Erik Sviatchenko. The 28-year-old revealed the pair quickly bonded over life at Celtic before Sviatchenko moved to Thai League 1 outfit Port FC. He said: "I got here and we talked about our times with Celtic. We related a lot, especially with the fans. I've never seen that crazy and fiery passion the fans bring to the club in Europe and even now."
Despite the six-hour time difference between Texas and Glasgow, Saracchi insists he'll always support Celtic from afar. He added: "I wish them the best. It's a club that will keep fighting, keep going. It's a huge fanbase, a huge club. I wish them the best and hopefully in the future we're able to reconnect again."
