Celtic winger Jota has returned to training, marking a significant milestone in his recovery from a cruciate ligament injury that has kept him sidelined for 16 months. The Portuguese player sustained the injury on April 26, 2025, and has faced a lengthy rehabilitation period with complications and setbacks.
Assistant manager Shaun Maloney expressed optimism about Jota's progress, stating that the winger looks strong and has a good chance of returning to his previous form. Maloney, who experienced a similar career-threatening injury in 2004, emphasized the importance of both physical and psychological support during the recovery process.
"He's definitely putting in the hours," Maloney said. "He looks really strong. Yeah, he’s got every chance. The last couple of weeks have been really positive."
Maloney indicated that Jota is still several weeks away from being considered for first-team selection. He noted that the winger is participating in non-contact drills and will need to gradually build up his tolerance for contact, followed by practice matches. A potential return in October or November is being considered, though Maloney hopes it could be sooner.
"There is a fair bit to this," Maloney explained. "It’s one thing coming back to training this week with no contact. Then you have to become free in the next few weeks and build up that tolerance to it. We then have to create friendlies for him too."
Jota, who joined Celtic from Benfica in 2021, was a key player in the team that won two titles under Ange Postecoglou. His departure to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad for £25 million was seen as a significant loss to the team's attacking quality.
Maloney also touched upon Celtic's transfer strategy, suggesting that Jota's impending return has influenced the club's pursuit of new wide players. While the team is looking to strengthen the right flank, particularly to replace the profile of Nicolas Kuhn, the expected availability of Jota on the left side means they are less likely to sign a left-sided winger. The potential signing of Real Oviedo winger Haissem Hassan could also impact the pursuit of Frosinone's Fares Ghedjemis.
"When Jota comes back, it’s probably similar to the nine position," Maloney said. "You then have Jota, (Seb) Tounekti and (Hyung-jun) Yang who obviously played there in the last game. I really like Yang off the left. It’s really strong."
Maloney highlighted the crucial role played by the medical and physiotherapy team in Jota's recovery, emphasizing their constant communication and support. He also noted the positive influence of the coaching staff, including Mark Fotheringham and Brendan Rodgers, in maintaining Jota's morale during his extended absence. The club views Jota's return as a significant boost, contingent on his full recovery and integration back into the squad.