Jota Reveals What His Football Icon Henrik Larsson Said to Him That Changed His Game for Life
In the world of football, few names carry the weight of Henrik Larsson. The Swedish striker, revered for his prolific goal-scoring and selfless play, left an indelible mark on the sport during his illustrious career with clubs like Celtic, Barcelona, and Manchester United. For modern players, Larsson remains an icon—a figure whose legacy inspires both on and off the pitch. One such player is Jota, the Portuguese winger who has spoken openly about his admiration for Larsson and how a single piece of advice from the legend transformed his approach to the game forever.
Jota, whose full name is João Pedro Neves Filipe, made a name for himself at Celtic, dazzling fans with his flair, vision, and clinical finishing—qualities that echo the brilliance of Larsson during his seven-year stint at the club. Now playing for Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League after a stint with the Hoops, Jota has often cited Larsson as his footballing idol, a sentiment shared by many who have witnessed the Swede’s magic at Celtic Park. But it wasn’t just Larsson’s highlight reels or trophy cabinet that left an impression on Jota—it was a personal encounter and a profound piece of advice that shifted his perspective and elevated his game.
During his time at Celtic, Jota had the chance to meet Larsson, an opportunity that came about through the club’s rich history and the enduring connection between its legends and current stars. While the exact details of their meeting remain private, Jota has since revealed the words that stuck with him: “It’s not about how many goals you score—it’s about how many games you change.” Spoken by a man who scored 242 goals in 315 appearances for Celtic alone, this advice might seem counterintuitive. Yet, for Jota, it was a revelation that redefined his purpose on the pitch.
Larsson, known for his humility despite his extraordinary achievements, wasn’t just a goal machine. He was a team player whose movement, work rate, and ability to create opportunities for others often turned matches in his side’s favor. His two assists in the 2006 Champions League final for Barcelona against Arsenal—after coming off the bench—are a testament to this. For Jota, a player blessed with technical skill and creativity, Larsson’s words shifted the focus from personal glory to collective impact.
Reflecting on this advice, Jota explained how it altered his approach: “I used to think that being a winger was all about beating players and scoring. But Henrik made me see that it’s about the moments—the passes, the runs, the decisions that open up the game for your team. That’s what stays with people.” This mindset was evident during Jota’s time at Celtic, where he became more than just a highlight-reel player. His stunning 30-yard screamer against Kilmarnock in 2022 and his deft chip against Rangers in the same season showcased his flair, but it was his ability to link play, create chances, and influence matches that truly embodied Larsson’s philosophy.
Jota’s stats at Celtic—28 goals and 26 assists in 83 appearances—reflect a player who embraced this broader role. His standout performances, like the 5-0 thrashing of Kilmarnock where he lit up Rugby Park, weren’t just about his goals but about how he dictated the tempo and unlocked defenses. Fans and pundits alike began drawing parallels between Jota and Larsson, not just for their skill but for their ability to elevate those around them.
For Jota, Larsson’s advice was more than a tactical tip—it was a life lesson from a player who had navigated the highs and lows of a remarkable career. Larsson himself faced adversity, from a severe leg break in 1999 to the racist abuse he endured as a child in Sweden, yet he emerged stronger each time. His resilience and team-first mentality were qualities Jota sought to emulate. “He’s the kind of player you want to be,” Jota once said in an interview. “Not just for the goals, but for how he carried himself and made everyone better.”
This encounter with Larsson came at a pivotal moment for Jota, who was establishing himself as a key figure at Celtic under Ange Postecoglou. The advice gave him the confidence to trust his instincts and prioritize impact over statistics, a shift that paid dividends as Celtic reclaimed the Scottish Premiership title in 2022. Even after moving to Al-Ittihad in 2023 for a reported £25 million, Jota has carried this philosophy with him, aiming to be a game-changer in every match he plays.
Jota’s admiration for Larsson isn’t just professional—it’s deeply personal. In 2023, Celtic’s YouTube channel captured Jota’s reaction to seeing Larsson’s iconic chip against Rangers in the 6-2 Old Firm victory of 2000 for the first time. His wide-eyed awe—“I haven’t seen this before… The guy’s class. Only top players can do this”—spoke volumes about the reverence he holds for his idol. That goal, a nutmeg on Bert Konterman followed by a delicate dink over Stefan Klos, encapsulated Larsson’s genius, and Jota’s response showed how much he aspires to reach that level.
As Jota continues his career, Larsson’s words remain a guiding light. They remind him that football isn’t just about individual brilliance but about leaving a mark on the game, the team, and the fans. For a player once dubbed “the next Henrik Larsson” by Celtic supporters, Jota is forging his own path while honoring the legacy of the man who changed his game—and his life—for good.
In a sport where egos often dominate, Larsson’s advice to Jota is a timeless reminder of what truly matters. And for Jota, it’s a mantra that ensures his footballing journey will be remembered not just for what he scored, but for how he played the game.
