19th April 2026; Hampden Park, Glasgow, Scotland; Scottish Cup Football, Celtic versus St Mirren; Marcelo Saracchi of Celtic on the ball
The defender became a popular figure among supporters during an impressive loan spell from Boca Juniors last season, with Martin O'Neill publicly making clear his desire to keep him in Glasgow.
However, Celtic never managed to agree a permanent deal and Saracchi has since completed a move to MLS side Houston Dynamo.
Now, in his first lengthy interview about Celtic since leaving, the Uruguayan has revealed his frustration at how negotiations unfolded.
Saracchi told the Daily Record: "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.
"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.
"I definitely don't want to be on a team that doesn't want me. It was more me and my agent calling them because I wanted to come back and be a Celtic player. It wasn't much of them reaching out to us and giving me an offer.
"I tried everything possible to go back. It felt like there wasn't much intention from their end. They didn't give any offer. But I wish them the best and I always try to keep track on how they are doing."
Despite the disappointment, Saracchi has refused to close the door on another spell at Celtic and believes he could yet return to Parkhead later in his career.
On whether he can see himself playing for Celtic again, Saracchi said: "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. 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."
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