Last summer, Celtic supporters were left heartbroken when their star winger, Jota, made a high-profile move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad in a deal worth £25 million.
For both the club and the player, the offer was too lucrative to refuse, setting a new record for the Scottish giants.
A Challenging Stint in Saudi Arabia
However, Jota’s time in Saudi Arabia has not lived up to his expectations, on the pitch at least.
The Portuguese winger managed only five goals and one assist in 25 appearances across all competitions for Al-Ittihad. This is a stark contrast to his prolific spell at Celtic, where he netted 28 goals and provided 26 assists in 83 matches for the Scottish Champions. .
His struggle to get minutes in the Middle East became more apparent when he was temporarily excluded from the squad due to registration issues with foreign players.
A Return to Europe on the Horizon?
Now, it seems Jota’s Saudi adventure could be drawing to a close. According to journalist Benjamin Quarez, the 24-year-old winger is on the verge of signing with French Ligue 1 side Stade Rennais. Negotiations between the two clubs are reportedly at an advanced stage, with an agreement expected soon. Quarez shared on social media: “Jota is expected to join Rennes in the coming days. Negotiations well advanced for Al-Ittihad winger. Not much more needed to complete the deal.”
Jota devrait être Rennais dans les jours à venir. Négociations en très bonne voie pour l’ailier d’Al-Ittihad. Il ne manquerait plus grand-chose pour boucler l’accord #mercato @leparisiensport
— Benjamin Quarez (@B_Quarez) August 22, 2024
Celtic Return Unlikely Amid French Move
Earlier in the transfer window, Al-Ittihad made Jota available for departure as they sought to reduce their foreign player quota. While some, including pundit Michael Stewart, speculated about a potential return to Celtic, such a move always seemed improbable due to the financial implications. Now, Ligue 1 appears to be Jota’s most likely destination, with Rennes eager to secure his services.
Hopes for a French Renaissance
If Jota can replicate the form he showed at Celtic, Rennes could be in for a treat. A return to European football may provide the fresh start he needs to reignite his career. All eyes will be on the winger as he looks to make a significant impact in France, whether the money won’t be so much but the football with at least be authentic.
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