Celtic Eye January Move For Right-Wing Insurance: Should They Still Go For It After Jota’s Return?

Celtic Eye January Move For Right-Wing Insurance: Should They Still Go For It After Jota’s Return? Celtic may still need a new right winger in January despite Jota’s return from a lengthy injury lay-off, with squad depth remaining a concern for Martin O’Neill. The Portuguese attacker recently returned to competitive action against Motherwell, featuring off the bench in Celtic’s 2-0 victory at Fir Park. His comeback offers a welcome boost after an absence of around 18 months. However, one appearance cannot erase every concern surrounding his fitness. Jota suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury against Dundee United in April 2025, forcing Celtic to manage without one of their most dangerous attacking options. According to journalist Pete O’Rourke on Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast , Celtic could consider signing a right-sided attacker in January if the right opportunity arises. The original report highlighted concerns about Jota’s recovery and the lack of quality depth in wide positions. His return changes the situation, but it doesn’t remove the need for careful planning. Jota brings close control, direct dribbling and creativity in the final third. Those qualities can help Celtic break down compact defences, particularly when opponents defend deep and leave little space between the lines. Yet, after such a lengthy absence, the 27-year-old needs time to recover his sharpness and match fitness. Celtic must avoid placing excessive demands on him before he can handle regular starts and consecutive appearances. Yang Hyun-jun’s fitness concerns further complicate the situation, while injuries elsewhere have tested the squad’s options. Celtic cannot afford to rely on one returning player to solve every problem on the right flank. Should Celtic sign a right winger in January despite Jota’s return? MOTHERWELL, SCOTLAND – OCTOBER 11: Jota of Celtic celebrates after the William Hill Premiership 2026/27 match between Motherwell and Celtic at Fir Park on October 11, 2026 in Motherwell, Scotland. (Photo by Zak Mauger/Getty Images) Yes. O’Neill should pursue a dependable right-sided attacker, preferably through a loan deal or a modest permanent transfer. Jota deserves patience, not unrealistic expectations. Short cameos, carefully managed minutes and adequate recovery between demanding matches would give him a better chance of rebuilding his form without unnecessary pressure. However, Celtic need another option who can start immediately if required. A durable winger with experience, pace and the ability to contribute goals would offer genuine competition while protecting the team against another setback. There is little sense in spending heavily on a replacement when Jota could regain his best form. Celtic should instead target someone who complements him, allowing O’Neill to rotate his attacking options and maintain intensity throughout a demanding campaign. If Jota thrives, the extra signing becomes valuable squad depth. If his recovery stalls, Celtic will already have a credible alternative rather than scrambling for solutions midway through the season.