When He Scores, He Makes The Celtic Sing: Jota's Back on the Wing

Celtic Park is set to welcome back one of its fan favourites as Jota Felipe returns to the club in an £8 million deal from French side Rennes. This move marks a dramatic return for the Portuguese winger, who left for Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League for £25 million before making his way to France. After a challenging stint abroad and struggling to make a mark, Jota has signed a five-and-a-half-year contract with Celtic, keeping him at the club until 2030.

For Jota, this return to Glasgow feels like coming home. 'It’s definitely nostalgic,' he told Celtic TV in an exclusive interview following his signing. The winger told the interviewer that he has missed the club and had kept in regular contact with his old teammates.

The Struggles Abroad and a Welcome Return

Jota’s time away from Celtic wasn’t as successful as he’d hoped. Despite a promising - and lucrative - move to Al-Ittihad, he struggled to make an impact. Still battling with his consistency and form, the winger made a move to Ligue 1 side Rennes. The flashes of brilliance that made him a fan favourite at Celtic seemed distant.

However, a return to Celtic was always on the cards for Jota. His spell at Celtic in the 2021/22 season was full of memorable moments, including crucial goals and assists that helped guide the team to a domestic treble. Now, back in the familiar green and white, Jota will hope to recapture the Celtic goal involvements that earned him the song 'Jota on the wing' and the title of 'Superstar from Portugal'.

Brendan Rodgers’ Role in the Return

One of the key factors in Jota’s return was the presence of Brendan Rodgers, the manager who guided Celtic to domestic glory and nurtured Jota’s development during his first spell at the club after signing from Benfica. When asked about Rodgers’ role in his decision to come back, Jota was quick to praise the manager's influence.

Jota explained that Rodgers was 'crucial' to his move back to Glasgow.

Jota’s playful nature also shone through during the interview, as he joked that the reason for his return was 'definitely not the weather' but says he needs to be 'a place with soul' which Celtic Park certainly has.

Celtic’s Strong Position: Aiming for More Glory

Celtic sit at the top of the Scottish Premiership, a commanding 10 points clear of rivals Rangers. The Hoops have already secured the League Cup this season and appear well on their way to securing another title. With Jota now back in the squad, Celtic’s prospects look even brighter.

In European competition, Celtic are well-placed to make it through to the Champions League knockout stages, with a solid group-stage performance that has seen them go toe-to-toe with some of Europe’s elite. The upcoming match against Aston Villa is shaping up to be an important fixture, and Jota could be the difference-maker should he make an appearance.

Jota's Legacy and the Fans’ Expectations

Fans are eagerly anticipating what Jota will bring to the team in his second stint. His flair, creativity, and eye for goal were sorely missed during his time away, and now, with Celtic flying high in both domestic and European competition, there is an air of excitement surrounding his return.

Celtic’s current form has been impressive but with Jota back, they look even stronger. Whether in the Scottish Premiership or the Champions League, the Portuguese winger will be looking to add to his impressive collection of titles at Celtic.

For now, Jota on the wing is a chant that’s sure to fill the air at Celtic Park once again. And with the "Superstar from Portugal" back where he belongs, the best may yet be to come for Celtic in 2025.