Celtic have unveiled Jota as their first January signing, with the Portuguese winger rejoining the club on a five-and-a-half-year deal. The announcement was made on Monday afternoon, and the 25-year-old has spoken of his joy and excitement in his first interview since completing the move.
Jota, who left the Hoops 18 months ago for a big-money transfer to Saudi Arabia before a brief stint with Rennes, is now back at Paradise, ready to pick up where he left off.
“It’s Very Nostalgic”
Speaking to the CelticFC.com, Jota reflected on his decision to return to Celtic Park and the emotions that came with it:
“It’s very nostalgic for me because it was such an amazing feeling and all the moments that I felt through my two seasons here, and I’m just delighted to be back. I’m really excited and I just can’t wait to start.”
“The best thing in Glasgow, besides Celtic obviously, is the people and I feel like I need a place with soul, where I feel at home. This is definitely something I was looking for, and I think there is no better match than Celtic.”
A Rollercoaster Year-and-a-Half
Reflecting on the time since his departure in the summer of 2023, Jota admitted that life had its challenges during his spells in Saudi Arabia and France:
“The last year-and-a-half has had its ups and downs, but that’s life and that’s how football is. Now I just can’t wait to work hard, to get along with the lads again and just to flow.”
Rodgers Played a Crucial Role
Jota was also quick to praise manager Brendan Rodgers, whose role in bringing the winger back to Celtic was pivotal. He explained how Rodgers’ vision for the team and his belief in Jota convinced him to return:
“The manager was crucial in me coming here because he told me what he wanted from day one. We had really good discussions and we were very honest and, in the end, we believed in each other.”
“For me, that’s the most important thing – someone who believes in me and someone that I believe in. And I think it’s a really exciting time to be working with someone who has achieved so much and who is giving so much joy and happiness to the Celtic family.”
Aiming for Success
Jota is keen to hit the ground running and help Celtic maintain their winning ways, while acknowledging the changes within the team since his departure:
“Times have changed with new team-mates and a new coach but the idea and the path that Celtic always aims for is to go forward and it’s here, it’s part of the DNA.”
The winger concluded by setting out his ambitions:
“I just want to come and help as much as I can and to contribute to the team and achieve big things, just like in the past. The aim is to win matches and give joy to the fans, and in the end it’s about winning titles and that’s what we are here to do.”
Jota’s Return Sparks Excitement
Jota’s homecoming has already reignited excitement among Celtic fans, who remember his pivotal role in the club’s success during his first two-year stint.
Now reunited with the Celtic family, Jota looks ready to create more unforgettable moments in Paradise. Fans will be eager to see him back in action, but we could be a little bit away from that yet with the winger not up to match fitness. He is also ineligible for the final Champions League game against Aston Villa on Wednesday.
