Celtic will have to see out the remainder of the season without two of their most influential players, after it was confirmed there will be no return for Cameron Carter-Vickers or Jota before the campaign wraps up.
It is a blow, but not one that has come out of nowhere.
Both players have been dealing with long term injury issues, and the signs had already been pointing towards this outcome. Now, with the final run of games approaching, that reality has been made official.
Carter-Vickers has been sidelined for a significant period following a serious Achilles problem, an injury that has not only kept him out but also disrupted the stability of Celtic’s defence.
His absence has been felt in more ways than one. Beyond his ability as a centre back, he brings organisation, composure, and leadership, qualities that have been difficult to fully replace.
At times this season, Celtic have looked uncertain at the back, and while there are multiple factors behind that, losing a player of his presence has clearly played a part.
Jota’s situation has been equally frustrating, though from an attacking perspective. The winger has been out with a serious knee injury, and despite hopes earlier in the season, recovery has not progressed quickly enough for a return before the end of the campaign.
That has left Celtic without one of their most creative and unpredictable attacking outlets. Jota’s ability to unlock defences, carry the ball, and produce moments of quality in tight games has been missing, particularly in matches where Celtic have struggled to break teams down.
Taken together, the absence of both players has had a noticeable impact across the pitch.
Celtic have had to adjust constantly, with Martin O’Neill rotating options and leaning on the depth of the squad. Some players have stepped up, others have been asked to take on roles they would not normally occupy, and while there have been positive moments, the lack of like for like replacements has been clear.
It also adds important context to the team’s performances this season. Injuries have not been a minor inconvenience, they have been a defining factor.
The focus now, however, is not on rushing either player back.
Both Carter-Vickers and Jota are expected to target a full return next season, with the priority being complete recovery rather than taking any risks in the closing weeks. For Celtic, that means looking ahead while managing what remains of the current campaign.
There is still plenty to play for, and the team will need to find solutions without two of their key figures.
How they handle that challenge could go a long way in shaping how this season is ultimately remembered.