Marcelo Saracchi’s journey to Celtic has taken another step, with the 27-year-old filmed leaving Argentina this afternoon en route to London for his medical.
The move has naturally sparked debate about what Saracchi will bring to Celtic, and how he fits into Brendan Rodgers’ squad. With Kieran Tierney needing his minutes carefully managed and Inamura still struggling to convince Rodgers, the need for dependable cover at left-back is obvious.
To get a clearer picture, South American football expert Tim Vickery, who has followed Saracchi’s career closely. Has offered an honest assessment of the Uruguayan, mixing praise with a dose of realism about the player’s path so far.
Vickery admitted Saracchi has not yet lived up to the early hype but believes Celtic could still benefit from his energy and attacking instincts.
He said: (Sky Sports), “He’s a stocky little left back, very, very quick.
“When he first came through, I had immense hopes for this player, real hopes.
“I thought he was the future of Uruguay at left back.
“I thought he was on for a brilliant career and so far it’s proved a little bit of a disappointment.
“He’s bounced around.
“What he perhaps needs in his career is a bit of stability.
“But as an attacking left back there’s plenty Celtic can get out of him.”
It’s an honest view. Saracchi comes with experience, but also with the feeling that he hasn’t yet lived up to his early promise. Rodgers knows the task is getting him to turn bursts of talent into steady, reliable displays.
At 27, Saracchi is no longer one for the future. This loan could be a turning point in his career, with the stability Vickery mentions possibly found in Glasgow if he adapts quickly and follows Rodgers’ plan.
For Celtic, his arrival adds speed and bite on the left side. Even without an option to buy, it gives the squad cover in an area that badly needed it before a tough campaign in Scotland and in Europe.
Fans will always hope for more long-term answers, but right now Saracchi looks like a fix. If he shows the traits Vickery still backs him to deliver, the Uruguayan could end up being an important piece of Celtic’s season.
