It’s no surprise that Celtic fans are locked in debate over what appears to be the club’s new away kit for the 2025/26 season. Every year, when images of a new strip begin to circulate—whether through official releases, leaks, or early promotional material—opinions are always divided. Some fans immediately embrace the design, appreciating any fresh take on the club’s historic look, while others are far less enthusiastic, lamenting a departure from traditional styles or longing for a return to previous manufacturers like Umbro or Nike.

This time, the talking point revolves around a leaked image featuring Jota, the former Celtic winger who remains a fan favorite despite his departure. The image, which appears to show him inside Celtic Park sporting the latest Adidas-designed strip, quickly spread across social media, igniting speculation and debate among the Parkhead faithful. For some, the sight of Jota donning the Hoops again, even in an unofficial capacity, is enough to stir excitement. However, the main focus of discussion has been whether the kit itself is a genuine upcoming release and, if so, whether it meets the standards expected of a Celtic away jersey.

Adidas has been responsible for producing Celtic’s kits since 2020, and while the partnership has resulted in several well-received designs, there have also been releases that have divided opinion. Some fans have praised Adidas’ ability to blend modern sportswear trends with elements of Celtic’s heritage, while others feel that the manufacturer has strayed too far from the club’s traditional identity, particularly when it comes to away and third kits. The latest leaked kit has proven to be no exception, sparking a mix of reactions from supporters online.

Among the responses, one fan speculated that it might not be the club’s primary away kit, stating, “Legacy kit I’d say,” possibly suggesting that the design is part of a special-edition or retro-inspired range rather than an official matchday strip. If true, this would align with Adidas’ recent trend of releasing heritage-style kits that pay homage to classic designs from the club’s past.

Others, however, were far less impressed. One particularly critical supporter made their disappointment clear, remarking, “Jeezo, is that the best they can do? Bring back Umbro.” This sentiment is one that has been echoed by sections of the Celtic support in recent years, with many older fans still holding a deep nostalgia for the kits produced by Umbro in the late 1990s and early 2000s. That era, of course, coincided with some of Celtic’s most memorable European nights and domestic successes, which naturally enhances the emotional attachment to the jerseys of that time.

Umbro’s designs, with their classic, no-nonsense approach to football kits, have long been revered by traditionalists who favor simple yet iconic styles over the more experimental offerings seen in the modern era. Adidas, for all their global reputation and technical advancements in sportswear, have struggled at times to fully win over this portion of the fanbase, especially when they opt for unconventional color schemes or bold graphic patterns.

Despite the differing views, the debate over kits is an annual ritual among Celtic supporters, just as it is for fans of clubs around the world. Some will instantly take to the new design, while others will take time to warm up to it—if they ever do. Historically, even some of the most criticized kits have later been embraced, particularly if the team enjoys success while wearing them. After all, results on the pitch often dictate how a kit is remembered.

For now, the jury remains out on this potential new away strip. Whether it’s an official release or simply a special-edition design, the discussion will undoubtedly continue to rage among the Parkhead faithful. One thing is certain: Celtic fans are deeply passionate about their club’s identity, and any kit that bears the famous badge will always be subject to intense scrutiny. Time will tell whether this one becomes a fan favorite or another divisive entry in the club’s long history of shirt designs.