Al Ittihad has made the decision to keep their £25 million summer signing Jota off the team list until at least the upcoming winter transfer window.

According to journalist Rudy Galetti on X, Jota is now faced with a decision: to wait until January, hoping that the decision made by the club and its manager Nuno Espirito Santo will change, or to initiate talks aimed at terminating his contract and asking for his full salary.

🚨❌ #AlIttihad decided that #Jota will stay out of the team list until the winter transfer session.

⏳ The 🇵🇹 is now evaluating either to wait until January hoping that the club's and Nuno's decision will change or start talks to terminate his contract, asking for full salary. pic.twitter.com/Kgu16Kn2i6

— Rudy Galetti (@RudyGaletti) September 20, 2023

This comes after the 24-year-old’s future at the club already looked uncertain.

Jota has found himself sidelined by the club, sparking speculation about his possible departure during the winter transfer window.

There were many clubs keen on the player during the summer when it was clear he’d become available. Atalanta, Spurs and Fenerbahce were all credited with interest.

While a return to Celtic would be welcomed by fans who have a deep affinity for the Portuguese star, it seems unlikely given the financial intricacies involved. At Celtic, Jota had made 83 appearances, scoring 28 goals and notching up 26 assists.

However, if he does pocket his wages in full, money may not be a stumbling block. Never say never.