Celtic's Jota has made significant progress in his recovery after being sidelined for 18 months through injury, providing new hope for the team's struggling attack.

Celtic Receive Big Support As Jota Returns After 18

Why this is important

Jota's return to Celtic after 18 months out due to injury gives new hope to a team that is struggling in attack. With his abilities and experience, Jota is expected to make a significant contribution to improving the team's performance. Support from former players such as Charlie Mulgrew also adds to the belief that Jota's presence will be an important boost for the squad.

Background

Jota, a winger from Portugal, had previously been an important part of Celtic's attack line before his long injury. It is hoped that his return will fill the existing void and provide more varied attack options for the team. Charlie Mulgrew, former Celtic defender, emphasized how important Jota's presence is to the current squad.

Main Points

Celtic Receive Big Support As Jota Returns After 18.
Celtic's Jota has made significant progress in his recovery after 18 months out with injury, providing new hope for the team's struggling attack.
Celtic Handed Huge Boost As Jota Returns After 18 Months: Should O'Neill Risk Rushing Him Back?.

Celtic have received encouraging news after Jota took a significant step towards his long-awaited first-team comeback. The Portuguese winger managed to complete 45 minutes in the behind-closed-doors match against Falkirk on Friday, marking his first competitive appearance in around 18 months. For a player who has endured such a long spell away from the pitch, this performance was a major personal achievement.

Former Celtic defender Charlie Mulgrew believes that Jota's return could provide a much-needed boost to the squad. Speaking while representing Celtic in Tennent's Sixes, the former Scotland international explained why the winger's availability could feel like getting a new player. His confidence partly stems from positive reports through his son, Joshua, who plays in Celtic's academy. Joshua recently trained with some of the first team players during the international break and saw Jota training with the group. According to Mulgrew, his son spoke very well about Jota's condition and progress.

This statement will delight fans who have been waiting patiently to see the winger's quality again. Mulgrew stated, "Jota is a top player – it would be great to see him back. It's like the old saying about having a new signing. I know it's a cliché, but it's true with Jota because he hasn't played for a long time. Martin O'Neill didn't see him at all last season, so he'll be delighted. I imagine a player of his quality would be desperate to get back in."

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He added: "Obviously, with a lot of players away during the international break, my son played for the under-18s and managed to train with some of the first team players. Jota was there with them a few days, and he spoke very well of him. He looks good. It's great to see him back. It's been a tough time for Celtic fans in recent weeks, but seeing him back on the pitch will put a smile on their faces. He could be an important player for Celtic," explained Mulgrew.

"It's something they probably need in the forward areas. Listening there are problems all over the pitch for Martin at the moment, but the wing areas could certainly use a bit of help. If Jota can get to a good level of fitness, that would be huge. I think people have to be patient with him. You can't come straight back after 18 months out. He needs to take time to rebuild, but even if he only gets 10 minutes here and 15 minutes there for a few weeks, that will be a big boost for everyone at the club, whether that's the case or not. players or supporters."

Jota suffered a serious ACL injury against Dundee United at Tannadice in April 2025. Consequently, his recovery process kept him out of competitive football for around 18 months. Celtic have struggled for consistency in some areas, and Mulgrew believes the wing position requires special attention. Jota's return could give O'Neill an additional attacking option, especially when the team needs creativity and unpredictability in the final third.

The former defender admitted that the manager was facing problems all over the pitch. However, he believes that Jota can make a big difference if he finally reaches his previous fitness levels. Of course, there must be patience. Mulgrew suggested that a 10 to 15 minute appearance could be a reasonable starting point before Celtic ramp up their involvement. That approach makes sense. O'Neill cannot see Jota as an instant solution to any attacking problems, especially after such a serious injury. In my opinion, Celtic should refrain from rushing him back just because fans are desperate to see him play. Short replacement appearances, carefully managed training sessions and gradual increases in workload should be the priority. Jota's technical ability could transform Celtic's attacking threat, but his long-term availability is far more important than his immediate impact.

What happened next

With Jota now back training with the first team, coach Martin O'Neill may consider including the winger in the squad for the upcoming match. If his performance continues to improve, there is a possibility that Jota will return to appearing in competitive matches in the near future. Celtic fans certainly hope to see Jota show his quality on the pitch again.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to Jota recently?

Jota managed to complete 45 minutes in the behind-closed-doors game against Falkirk, marking his first competitive appearance in 18 months.

Who confirmed Jota's return?

Charlie Mulgrew, former Celtic defender, talks about Jota's return and the impact it will have on the squad.

Why is Jota's return important now?

Jota's return is considered important as it could provide a much-needed boost to the Celtic squad after a long absence from the field.

What changes are expected after Jota returns?

It is hoped that Jota's return will provide additional quality to the team, such as getting new players for Celtic.

What does Charlie Mulgrew think of Jota?

Charlie Mulgrew believes Jota is a top player and his return would be huge for Celtic, especially as he hasn't played for a long time.

Celtic Receive Massive Backing As Jota Returns After 18