Jota faces potential ban after leaving Celtic for Al-Ittihad

The transfer of Jota from Celtic to Al-Ittihad was quite an eye opening deal in many ways. It was no surprise that the Portuguese winger was wanted by another club. He had made a tremendous impact for the Hoops over the past couple of seasons. But his destination was perhaps a major surprise to most fans.

Considering the numbers being thrown about in the rumour mill regarding the deal, it is not hard to understand why it was completed so swiftly. Although no details officially, it is believed that it was a £25 million deal including add-ons while Jota himself has signed a life-changing contract as well.

But now comes the next slightly odd twist in the transfer story. Although the move might have been completed, there is a financial challenge facing Al-Ittihad which could seriously have an impact on Jota too.

As reported by Okaz (via Football Scotland), Al-Ittihad owe £20 million in debt payments. They have been given a deadline to pay them off or Jota and their other new signings will not be allowed to play for the club.

Jota faces potential ban after leaving Celtic for Al-Ittihad

It looks like a ban could be placed on Jota and his new club’s other headline signings, Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante, from playing in matches. To avoid this pretty serious step, Al-Ittihad are believed to have until July 27 to show that they are debt free.

Considering how Al-Ittihad have been splashing out in recent times, it has to be said that £20 million seems like a relatively small sum. So you would expect it to all be settled quickly. But you never know what might happen.

It is unlikely this will lead to difficulties in Celtic getting paid their transfer fee. Equally it would be a huge surprise if the transfer unravelled to the extent of Jota returning to Glasgow. In his favour though, if that was to somehow happen, his heartfelt goodbye message and his fabulous performances over the last couple of seasons should mean that the Portuguese winger would be welcomed back with open arms by the fans.