Isn’t this a sight for sore eyes, Celtic fans?
It’s been nearly two years since Jota last wore the iconic Hoops training kit, having departed in 2023 for Al-Ittihad in a £25million deal.
This morning, however, the Portuguese superstar was back in black and green, taking part in his first training session under new manager Brendan Rodgers at Lennoxtown.
Rodgers had previously expressed his desire to work with Jota before the winger’s move to Saudi Arabia, and today that wish finally came true as the 25-year-old playmaker was put through his paces with the squad.
Jota is back in Celtic training after two years.
The environment may feel somewhat different for Jota this time around, given that he left shortly after Ange Postecoglou’s departure.
The Australian’s approach at Lennoxtown contrasted with Rodgers’ style, but Jota appeared to settle in quickly, diving into drills alongside his teammates after a challenging spell in France where limited game time under Jorge Sampaoli hindered his progress.
One familiar face missing from the training ground was Kyogo, who recently completed his move to Rennes in Ligue 1. The Japanese striker bid an emotional farewell to Celtic fans, with his former teammates wishing him well for his new chapter.
Jota, meanwhile, won’t be available for tomorrow night’s Champions League clash against Aston Villa due to registration rules.
When Jota could make his Celtic debut.
But supporters won’t have to wait long to see their beloved winger back in action.
Celtic’s next fixture is against Motherwell at Fir Park on February 2, where Jota could make his re-debut under Rodgers.
And for those eager to see him light up a packed Parkhead, the rescheduled match against Dundee—postponed due to Storm Eowyn—is set for midweek on February 5.
By then, the club will hope to have secured a new striker to fill the void left by Kyogo’s departure. Mathias Kvistgaarden remains a potential option.
