Sport Today
27 Jan 2025
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Celtic Complete Jota Return as Kyogo Joins Rennes

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In a dramatic transfer saga that has seen both Jota and Kyogo Furuhashi make high-profile moves, Celtic has completed the return of Jota from Rennes, while Kyogo has joined the French club on a two-and-a-half-year deal. The transfer deal has sent shockwaves through the footballing world, especially with Jota’s return to Celtic following a mixed period at Al-Ittihad and Rennes. In contrast, Kyogo is embarking on a new challenge with Rennes as they aim to climb up the Ligue 1 standings. This article explores the key details of these transfers, the impact on both clubs, and what lies ahead for these two talented players.

Jota’s Return to Celtic

Jota’s return to Celtic has been finalized after a challenging period away from the Scottish Premiership. The Portuguese winger left Celtic in July 2023 after a successful spell in Glasgow, joining Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League for a reported fee of £25 million. However, his time in Saudi Arabia proved to be less than ideal, as he struggled to secure a regular spot in the starting lineup at Al-Ittihad. Additionally, Jota had a brief stint with Rennes, but even their recent poor form, with five consecutive defeats, couldn’t offer the player the stability he desired.

After only playing 19 matches for Al-Ittihad and 10 appearances for Rennes, Jota has decided to make his return to Celtic Park, signing a long-term contract with the Scottish giants. The 25-year-old has put pen to paper on a five-and-a-half-year deal, making his return to a club where he enjoyed great success before his departure. “The last year-and-a-half has had its ups and downs, but that’s life and that’s how football is,” Jota commented. “Now I just can’t wait to work hard, to get along with the lads again, and just to flow.”

Jota initially arrived at Celtic in September 2021 on loan from Benfica. After impressing during his loan spell, Celtic triggered an option to sign him permanently for £6.5 million in the summer of 2022. During his time at Celtic, he became a fan favorite, contributing significantly to Celtic’s treble-winning 2022-2023 season. With 28 goals in 83 appearances, Jota became a key figure in Celtic’s success, and his departure in 2023 left many supporters saddened.

Jota’s Nostalgic Return

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Jota’s return to Celtic has been described by the player himself as “very nostalgic.” His fondness for Glasgow, particularly the people, has always been one of the driving factors for his decision to come back. “The best thing in Glasgow, besides Celtic obviously, is the people, and I feel like I need a place with soul, where I feel at home,” Jota said. This connection to the city and the club was a major consideration when the opportunity arose for him to return.

While Jota was initially signed by Ange Postecoglou, current manager Brendan Rodgers played a crucial role in bringing the Portuguese winger back to Celtic. “We had really good discussions and we were very honest and, in the end, we believed in each other,” Jota explained. “I think it’s a really exciting time to be working with someone who has achieved so much and who is giving so much joy and happiness to the Celtic family.”

For Celtic, this return is a significant boost, as Jota brings quality, creativity, and experience to a side already performing well in the Premiership. With Celtic sitting 10 points clear at the top of the table, Jota’s addition strengthens the club’s attacking options as they look to defend their league title.

Kyogo Furuhashi Joins Rennes

On the other side of the transfer saga, Kyogo Furuhashi has completed his move to Rennes, marking the end of his three-year spell with Celtic. The Japanese striker, who joined Celtic in the summer of 2021 alongside Jota, has now moved to the French Ligue 1 club on a two-and-a-half-year deal. Kyogo’s decision to leave Celtic comes after several months of deliberation about his future, with the 30-year-old seeking a new challenge in one of Europe’s top leagues.

Kyogo’s time at Celtic was filled with success, as he scored 85 goals in 165 appearances, becoming one of the club’s most prolific forwards in recent memory. His work ethic, movement, and clinical finishing made him a fan favorite at Celtic Park, and his departure leaves a significant hole in Celtic’s attacking line-up. However, Kyogo explained that he was looking for a fresh challenge. “I was looking for a new challenge in a recognised league,” Kyogo said. “Physically and technically, the league is very competitive, and the club is not in the position it has been in for the last few seasons. Our objective will be to climb back up the league table.”

Kyogo’s Qualities and Future at Rennes

Rennes’ sporting director, Frederic Massara, expressed his excitement at signing the Japan international. Massara highlighted Kyogo’s “great finishing qualities” and tireless work-rate, two aspects that will certainly help Rennes as they look to improve their position in Ligue 1. “He has a wealth of international experience, including in the Champions League, and knows what it’s like to play at the highest level,” Massara said. “This will help the team and provide new solutions for the coach with the aim of getting back to winning ways.”

Rennes, who are currently struggling in the French league, will be hoping that Kyogo’s arrival can help them regain their form. With Rennes sitting third-bottom in Ligue 1, they have a lot of work to do to climb up the table, but Kyogo’s experience and leadership could be key in turning things around. His arrival adds another dynamic attacking option for the French club as they look to secure their position in the league and improve their performances.

Impact of Jota’s and Kyogo’s Transfers

The moves of both Jota and Kyogo will have a significant impact on both Celtic and Rennes. For Celtic, Jota’s return is a major boost as they continue their pursuit of domestic success. With Jota back in the fold, Celtic’s attack becomes even more potent, and the team will look to build on their strong start to the Premiership season. Jota’s creativity and goal-scoring ability will complement the club’s attacking options, which already include the likes of Daizen Maeda and Oh Hyeon-gyu.

On the other hand, Kyogo’s departure leaves a gap in Celtic’s forward line. While the club has options to fill that void, including their new signing from Korea, the loss of Kyogo will certainly be felt. However, Celtic’s depth in attacking positions means that they are well-equipped to handle his departure and maintain their dominance in the Scottish league.

For Rennes, Kyogo’s arrival represents an opportunity to add an experienced and clinical striker to their ranks. If Kyogo can find his best form in France, he could be the catalyst that helps Rennes climb the Ligue 1 table. The striker’s experience in European competitions, particularly the Champions League, will also prove valuable as Rennes look to challenge for European places and improve their standing in domestic competitions.

A New Chapter for Jota and Kyogo

Both Jota’s return to Celtic and Kyogo’s move to Rennes represent significant moments in their careers. For Jota, coming back to a club where he experienced so much success is a chance to rediscover his form and contribute to Celtic’s pursuit of more silverware. For Kyogo, moving to Rennes provides an exciting challenge in one of Europe’s top leagues, where he will hope to continue his development and help his new team return to the heights they once enjoyed.

With both players now in new environments, the football world will be watching closely to see how they adapt and perform in their respective teams. The impact of these transfers will be felt not only in their new clubs but also in their previous teams, as Celtic and Rennes look to continue their respective campaigns. Whether Jota can replicate his success at Celtic or Kyogo can help Rennes rise in the French league, one thing is for sure—both players have bright futures ahead of them in European football.

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A New Chapter for Jota and Kyogo

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