GOLD: Celtic makes HUGE amount of money selling star player. The management reveals how much was made on the Transfer Deal.

Celtic’s Strategic Transfer: How Selling Jota Paid Off

The summer transfer window closed with a significant shift in Celtic’s squad as the club completed only one major sale. Midfielder Matt O’Riley left for Brighton & Hove Albion in a record deal exceeding £25 million. However, this wasn’t the first time Celtic had struck a lucrative deal, as evidenced by last summer’s sale of Portuguese winger Jota to Saudi Arabian side Al Ittihad for a similar fee.

The Jota Transfer: A Record-Breaking Deal

Jota’s transfer to Al Ittihad marked one of the most expensive sales in Scottish football history, equaling the record at the time. After initially joining Celtic on loan from Benfica, Jota’s permanent move to Parkhead in 2022 was fueled by his outstanding performances during the loan spell. In the 2021/22 season, Jota notched up ten goals and ten assists in 29 Scottish Premiership matches, convincing Celtic to make his stay permanent.

The decision paid off almost immediately. In his first full season with Celtic, Jota improved his statistics, scoring 11 goals and providing 11 assists in 33 league appearances. His overall contribution during his time in Glasgow, totaling 21 goals and 21 assists over two seasons, demonstrated his attacking prowess and ability to create opportunities. This impressive form not only helped Celtic secure another league title but also attracted interest from international clubs, culminating in his £25 million move to Al Ittihad.

A Year of Struggles in Saudi Arabia

While the move to Al Ittihad was a financial win for Celtic, Jota’s time in Saudi Arabia proved to be challenging. The winger struggled to adapt and secure a regular place in the starting lineup, making only 25 appearances across all competitions. His output dwindled, contributing just five goals and one assist during his stint with the club. In the Saudi Pro League, Jota managed only 16 appearances, a far cry from his starring role at Celtic.

His lack of impact on the pitch was a significant factor in Al Ittihad’s decision to offload him at the end of the season. Jota’s market value plummeted during this period, and his eventual move to Ligue 1 side Rennes was completed for a reported fee of around €8 million (£7 million). This represented a staggering £18 million drop in value from the fee Al Ittihad initially paid.

Celtic’s Transfer Strategy: Selling at Peak Value

The downturn in Jota’s fortunes highlights the savvy nature of Celtic’s decision to sell him at his peak value. Securing £25 million for Jota was not only a record for the club but also represented the peak of his market worth. The substantial fee provided Celtic with a financial windfall, allowing the club to invest in other areas of the squad while maintaining its competitive edge domestically.

Celtic’s decision to cash in on Jota, despite his on-field contributions, has proven to be strategically sound. The winger’s subsequent struggles abroad and his dramatic decrease in market value underscore the importance of timing in transfer dealings. By moving Jota on at the right moment, Celtic maximized their return and avoided being left with a devalued asset.

Impact on Celtic’s Performance

Some might have feared that Jota’s departure would leave a void in Celtic’s attacking lineup. However, the club’s performance in the following season indicated otherwise. Celtic continued to dominate the Scottish Premiership, securing the league title and adding the SFA Cup to their trophy cabinet. These achievements illustrate that the team’s success was not overly reliant on any single player, a testament to the depth and quality of the squad Brendan Rodgers has built.

Furthermore, the funds generated from Jota’s sale provided Celtic with the financial flexibility to make strategic acquisitions and strengthen the squad in other key areas. This approach has ensured that Celtic remains competitive, both domestically and in European competitions.

Conclusion

Celtic’s handling of Jota’s transfer is a prime example of effective transfer market strategy. By selling the Portuguese winger at the height of his value, the club not only secured a record fee but also mitigated the risk of a decline in his market worth. Jota’s subsequent struggles in Saudi Arabia and reduced value upon his move to Rennes only underscore the wisdom of Celtic’s decision.

The ability to capitalize on a player’s peak market value is crucial for clubs looking to maintain financial stability while staying competitive. Celtic’s success in doing so with Jota has provided a blueprint for future transfer dealings, demonstrating the importance of timing and market awareness. As the club continues to build on its domestic success and aims for European achievements, the funds and lessons from the Jota transfer will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping its future.