Celtic have had a number top quality players over the years who have moved away after a few successful seasons at Parkhead. The grass is not always greener on the other side though. Of course, things have worked out for some. Just have a look at how Virgil van Dijk’s career has played out. He is now considered one of the best centre-backs ever. But there are many others who have struggled after leaving Glasgow.
At this point in time, it feels like Jota is in the latter category. He made a Scottish record £25 million move to Al-Ittihad in the summer.
Things clearly have not worked out for him there though. Jota has barely featured for Al-Ittihad and it seems only like a matter of time before he is on the way out.
The Portuguese winger has been linked with a potential return to Celtic Park. But as reported by So3ody Sports (via Football Scotland), Newcastle United could be in pole position to land Jota’s signature.
Newcastle United in pole position for former Celtic player
Jota was one of the most highly-rated youngsters in the world while coming through the ranks at Benfica. He was even linked with a move to Real Madrid at one point.
He would struggle to find his feet at the senior level for Benfica though. A loan move to Real Valladolid did not work out much better and Jota was in a tough spot when Celtic came calling.
Jota was first signed by Celtic on a loan deal in the summer of 2021. He would go on to impress and became a key part of Ange Postecoglou’s plans. A year later, the Hoops brought him on a permanent basis. Of course, his time at Parkhead was not long as he would be gone a season later. But he did make an impact.