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Celtic has faced a major blow with their favorite winger Jota confirmed of being ruled out for nine months due to ligament injury. Manager Brendan Rodgers, during the interview with Sky Sports, mentioned on Friday, May 2 that Jota will be missing from action for all upcoming matches. Jota was hurt in last weekend's title-clinching match against Dundee United at Tannadice, seemingly after twisting his knee before limping off the field. Following the final whistle, the Portuguese star joined in the celebrations while wearing a supporting bandage and knee brace and hobbled on crutches.
During the media interaction, Rodgers mentioned the extent of injury Jota is now facing, resulting to absence from upcoming matches. "Obviously, Jota will be out," the Northern Irishman said. "Sadly, for us, and him, he will be out for a period of time. Probably six to nine months. The cruciate was worse than we'd hoped, really. He starts on his journey to recovery from that now", he continued.
Jota's injury results into major blow to Celtic
Jota's absence is more concerning for his second-year prospects than it is for this season, following his £6 million return in January. Jota, who had not played consistently since leaving Celtic, spent the early part of 2025 regaining match fitness after a big-money move to Saudi Arabia and then Rennes. Last month, he stated that this had made him feel stronger and more capable of facing the challenges.
Jota successfully made appearances in 16 matches, starting in nine of them, and has scored five goals since arriving in Glasgow. Rodgers noted that they expected him to excel following "a strong pre-season" that helped improve his fitness levels.
Celtic transferred then-top scorer Kyogo Furuhashi to Rennes while Jota completed his move in the opposite direction in January, and the latter's ailment makes it even more important to strengthen his forward line. "We will definitely have to go into the market, of that there is no doubt, but that was always going to be the case anyway," Rodgers added. "You are always looking to improve your front line, but there is no doubt that this news shines a light on that area of the field for us."
Celtic will be facing the Rangers on Sunday, May 4 and will work towards not losing the match once again for the third time. Also, the team will be playing without Alastair Johnston due to injury.
