Celtic Fans Still Love Me 29 Years On — And Here’s Why Jota Will Be Remembered Too
A Legacy Forged in 12 Months: Jorge Cadete Reflects on Celtic Glory and Jota’s Future
Nearly three decades after his explosive spell at Parkhead, former Celtic striker Jorge Cadete remains a beloved figure among the club’s faithful. Despite spending just one full season in Glasgow — from 1996 to 1997 — his impact was seismic. Now aged 58, Cadete speaks with quiet pride about the enduring affection he continues to receive from Celtic supporters, a testament not only to his talent but also to the emotional connection forged between player and fan during a transformative era in Scottish football.
His time at Celtic was brief but unforgettable. Signing for a modest £400,000 from Sporting Lisbon, Cadete exploded onto the scene with breathtaking efficiency. In just 48 appearances, he netted an astonishing 38 goals — a tally that earned him the Scottish Premiership Golden Boot in his debut season. His performances were defined by relentless pace, clinical finishing, and an instinctive understanding of the game that left defenders scrambling and fans roaring.
Yet, despite the success, Cadete’s journey at Celtic was not without turbulence. A dispute over a new contract led to a falling out with then-owner Fergus McCann, culminating in his departure. The situation was further complicated by reports of mental health struggles and a period of absence from training, which ultimately saw him move to Celta Vigo in Spain for a then-significant £3.5 million. Alongside fellow high-profile signings Pierre van Hooijdonk and Paolo Di Canio, Cadete became part of the infamous “Three Amigos” trio — a group whose passion and unpredictability captured headlines as much as their on-pitch brilliance.
Still, Cadete maintains that the bond with Celtic fans has never faded. Speaking ahead of Celtic’s clash with Benfica in the Europa League, he revealed that messages from supporters arrive almost daily. “It’s always gratifying to know that Celtic fans haven’t forgotten me,” he said. “I was only there for 12 months — not seven or eight years — and yet the love remains strong. That says something about the culture here.”
He went on to praise the spirit of Scottish football, noting its direct, attacking ethos. “They are Scottish, but the British… their culture is to play to win. They don’t play with strategy, they don’t play to draw. They play to score and win. And that’s what Celtic will do.” This mindset, he believes, is key to the club’s identity and appeal.
Now, Cadete sees echoes of his own potential legacy in the form of current winger Jota. The Portuguese international, who returned to competitive action last week after an 18-month absence due to injury and a stint in Saudi Arabia, made a memorable cameo in Celtic’s 2-0 victory over Motherwell. Even more telling was the reception he received from the crowd at the final whistle — a standing ovation that spoke volumes about the faith fans still have in him.
“I’ve seen Jota before he left for Saudi Arabia,” Cadete shared. “He had already proven his quality. He’s fast, intelligent, and dangerous on the wing. Now that he’s back, he’s going to really shake things up for the team.” He added, “A player with more time at the club always has more opportunities to ensure the fans don’t forget him.”
When asked if Jota could become a true legend at Celtic, Cadete didn’t hesitate. “Of course, without a doubt, he already is.” The former star believes that consistency, commitment, and moments of brilliance can cement a player’s place in the hearts of the support — regardless of how long they stay.
As Celtic prepare for their European showdown against Benfica, the spotlight remains firmly on the next generation of stars ready to carry the torch. With Jota returning to full fitness and showing signs of rediscovering his best form, the dream of another Portugal-born hero becoming a cult figure in Glasgow seems closer than ever.
For Cadete, it’s not just about records or stats — it’s about legacy, emotion, and the unbreakable thread between a player and the people who wear the green and white. And in that sense, even after nearly 30 years, his story is far from over.