Former Celtic star Jota could be set to rip up his contract with Saudi Pro League champions Al-Ittihad after the reason for him not being part of the first-team plans was revealed.

The winger moved to the Middle East from Parkhead in June for £25million move, however, the transfer has not worked out.

He has been on the fringes of the Tigers' squad amid an influx of foreign talent and has not made the cut as part of the foreign player quota for the upcoming campaign.

Saudi outlet Shorouk claim the Al-Ittihad boss and club chiefs chose Jota as the player to miss out on being included in the league squad due to him not adapting to the "atmosphere" following his transfer.

Another issue is said to be "concern within the ranks of his new club over his training levels."

It is also stated that Jota's agent is negioating with the club to release the player from his three-year deal.

READ MORE: Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has improved Matt O'Riley

Meanwhile, Celtic star Tomoki Iwata has opened up on his lack of game time so far this season, saying he hopes to "seize an opportunity".

The 26-year-old joined the Scottish champions in January and played a role in the Parkhead club lifting a domestic treble last season.

However, he has found his game time limited since the arrival of Brendan Rodgers, with his substitute appearance against Feyenoord recently marking his first competitive minutes of the season.

But the Japanese player is keen to fight for his place in the starting line up.

Speaking to Japanese outlet Football Zone, he said: "It's going to be quite difficult as the two players who were sent off against Feyenoord will be suspended, but Carter-Vickers will also be back after being out due to injury.

"It's unclear whether I'll be able to play on the pitch.  However, I will try to appeal in training in order to seize the opportunity.

"By gradually increasing my chances to play in this way and I can make the coach realise that I am a player who can bring something positive to the team.