Jota’s second spell at Celtic hasn’t quite exploded in the way fans might have dreamed when he made his long-awaited return in January.

With memories of his dazzling displays under Ange Postecoglou still fresh, expectations were naturally high. But context is important, and Jota’s lack of consistent football over the past 18 months has played a major part in his slower-than-expected return to form.

During his time away at Al-Ittihad and Rennes, the Portuguese winger made just over 30 appearances, struggling for rhythm and minutes. That’s hardly the platform a player needs before being thrust into the intensity of a title run-in in Glasgow.

Paul Slane, speaking on Open Goal, offered a fair assessment: “I don’t think he’s been brilliant, to be honest, but then again, he’s barely played all season. Probably don’t know if he had a pre-season but he’s not played a lot so he’s probably still trying to find his feet.

“When you let Kyogo go and you put Maeda up top, but Jota’s not played. You’ve got away with it because the league was in the bag and the cup already won the cup, but no he’s not been brilliant but you’ll see the best to him next season.”

And there are signs. Jota has chipped in with goals and assists, and his movement remains sharp—he’s getting into the right areas and creating chances. His link-up play is beginning to show flashes of what he was previously known for, even if the sharpness still isn’t fully back.

There’s no panic from within Lennoxtown. Brendan Rodgers and the coaching staff know that a fully fit and flying Jota is a major asset. The summer pre-season, with a full slate of games, fitness, and rhythm, should help unlock that next level. Fans might not have seen the best of him yet—but they just might next season.