Celtic saw a rare glimpse of winger Jota on the club’s official TikTok, sparking optimism as the player remains sidelined with an ACL injury. The short clip, posted in early August, showed him in the new home kit, reminding supporters that the Portuguese star is still part of the squad.
How did Jota’s appearance happen?
The clip surfaced after Celtic’s 2‑2 draw with AC Milan at Celtic Park earlier this month. While the match itself offered no goals from Jota, his presence in the stadium was enough to generate a wave of positive reactions on social media. The video, featuring Jota smiling and wearing the fresh green and white kit, was quickly identified by fans who praised his upbeat demeanor.
Why is the injury update critical now?
Jota has been out since April 2025, after tearing his anterior cruciate ligament in Celtic’s 5‑0 title‑clinching win over Dundee United. Initial recovery timelines slipped, and Martin O’Neill now expects a return only around late October or early November, meaning the winger will miss roughly 18 months of competitive action. This delay forces Celtic to adapt without his pace and creativity, while Jota focuses on an individualized rehab programme at Lennoxtown.
What does the club’s current form mean for his comeback?
Celtic sit third in the Premiership with 67 points, boasting a recent five‑game winning streak (WWWWW) and a goal difference of +24 (59 scored, 35 conceded). The team’s recent 3‑1 victory over Heart Of Midlothian on 16 May 2026 shows they can thrive without Jota, yet his eventual return could add a new dimension to an already potent attack.
What lies ahead for Jota?
The winger’s rehabilitation is now in its final stages, with a focus on regaining full match fitness. Martin O’Neill has warned patience is still required before calling him back into the squad, acknowledging the typical challenges of an ACL comeback. When he does return, a brief adjustment period is expected, but his proven quality suggests he will quickly re‑establish himself as a fan favourite.
How are supporters reacting?
Fans responded enthusiastically to the TikTok clip, sharing the hashtag #CelticFC and commenting on Jota’s relaxed vibe. The positive buzz underscores the emotional lift his appearance provides, reinforcing belief that the club’s future remains bright despite his absence.
Celtic’s ongoing success this season, combined with Jota’s gradual recovery, keeps the narrative of a resilient squad moving forward. As the October deadline approaches, the anticipation builds for the day when the Portuguese winger finally steps back onto the pitch, ready to contribute to the club’s push for the title.
