Celtic's Jota Likely Out for Season, Welsh Could Return to Well

Celtic winger Jota faces a potential season-ending injury, dealing a major blow to the Scottish Premiership leaders as they chase domestic and European honors. The Portuguese star, who has been sidelined since early autumn with a persistent hamstring issue, underwent specialist assessment in London last month. Scans confirmed significant damage requiring extended rehabilitation, with manager Brendan Rodgers confirming Jota is unlikely to feature again this campaign.[1]

Jota, 27, joined Celtic from Benfica in 2022 for £14m and quickly became a fan favorite, netting 28 goals in his debut season to help secure a domestic treble. This term, he managed just five appearances before the injury recurrence. "It's devastating for Jota and the squad," Rodgers said post-match. "He's our creative spark on the left. We'll miss his flair, but we've got depth to cover."[1]

Adding to Celtic's woes, the club rejected January loan bids for underutilized forward Anthony Welsh, amid speculation of a return to Motherwell, where he shone on loan last season. Welsh, 22, has featured sparingly behind Kyogo Furuhashi and others. Rodgers hinted at retaining him for squad rotation: "Antony's got quality; a fresh challenge at Well could suit, but we're short up top with Jota out."[1]

In brighter news, Jota has returned to Glasgow after holiday rehab abroad, reconnecting with fans and training lightly. Sources indicate a 2026 return is targeted, aligning with full recovery by pre-season. Celtic sit top of the league, five points clear, but face Rangers in the League Cup final this weekend without their talisman.[1]

The injury crisis underscores Celtic's reliance on wing play, prompting calls for January reinforcements. Rodgers remains optimistic: "We've overcome worse. The lads will step up." Fans rally behind Jota on social media, dubbing him "The King" in absentia.

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