The inclusion of Rocco Vata in the Scottish Cup squad for the tie against Buckie Thistle has sparked more speculation and hope among the Celtic faithful that a deal to keep him at the club could be reached. This, after Anthony Joseph’s report that the Hoops want to try and keep Vata.

This development, seemingly minor in the grand scheme of things, could very well signify a pivotal moment in Vata’s career and his relationship with Celtic.

The decision to name Vata in the matchday squad is not merely a tactical one; it’s a quiet statement. For a player whose future at the club still seems uncertain from where we stand, being considered for first-team duties in a Scottish Cup hints at a renewed confidence in his abilities by the management team. This move may well be the olive branch or the hint of assurance that fans and, most importantly, Vata himself have been waiting for.

It is worth noting that under normal circumstances Vata would still not be in the squad. New signing Kuhn will take up a place shortly and Daizen Maeda will also return from the Asian Cup in February.

Vata, a promising star within Celtic’s youth ranks, finds himself at a career crossroads after being pushed back to the B side under Brendan Rodgers. The lack direction regarding his future led to speculation about his departure, with interests from Serie A clubs looming as a potential next step in his career.

Offering Vata a new deal now, especially after the public speculation about his future, would be a significant move. It would not only secure the services of a highly regarded young talent but also send a message about Celtic’s commitment to nurturing and retaining their best youth prospects.

For Vata, signing a new deal under these circumstances would represent a victory of patience and belief in his own abilities, a testament to his resilience in the face of professional uncertainty.