Many happy returns to Artur Boruc, our one and only Holy Goalie

The Celtic Star

·20 February 2025

Many happy returns to Artur Boruc, our one and only Holy Goalie

Many Happy Returns to the one and only Artur Boruc who today celebrates his 45th birthday…

Artur was not only one of the most talented goalkeepers to play for the club, but he was also one of the most popular due to his colourful personality which made him a much loved figure among the Celtic supporters.

Dubbed ‘The Holy Goalie’ due to his ritual of blessing himself before the start and restart of each game, something that made him a hate figure in the eyes of the disturbed Ibrox fan base.

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This led to Artur controversially and disgracefully land in trouble with the authorities. Indeed a catchy tune was made in honour of the moment in honour of the Polish international that I’m sure a lot of you will fondly still recall!

Arthur Boruc of Celtic shakes hand with Gordon Strachan at the final whistle of the UEFA Champions League match between Celtic and AC Milan at Celtic Park October 3, 2007. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

But Artur was more than just a larger than life character, he was a top class goalkeeper, and in my opinion the finest in the club has seen in my lifetime. He had everything a top goalkeeper required. Excellent shot stopping ability, he was a leader who commanded his box with full authority and had decent distribution skills.

At the peak of his career he was one of the best goalkeepers in Europe which he proved on the big stage with Celtic and at major international competitions with Poland.

Artur retired three years ago having had spells at Fiorentina, Southampton Bournemouth, and Legia Warsaw following his departure from Celtic. He may have left the Celtic 15 years ago, but he’ll always remain a popular and legendary figure at the club. Many happy returns big man who made them go off their nut.

Just an Ordinary Bhoy