Daizen Maeda has spoken candidly about his emotional exit from Celtic, reflecting on his time at Parkhead while revealing his son's footballing ambitions. The Japanese winger, who played a key role in Celtic's 2025-26 Premiership campaign, has moved on to a new challenge after a stunning record transfer. Celtic finished third last season with 67 points, just three behind leaders Heart of Midlothian, and Maeda's contributions were vital in their strong finish, including a 5-0 winning run to end the season.

What did Maeda say about his Celtic career?

Maeda described his time at Celtic as 'unforgettable', praising the club's passionate fans and the high-pressure environment of Scottish football. He highlighted the 3-1 win over Heart of Midlothian on 16 May 2026 as a career highlight, calling it 'one of the best moments' in his football journey. The winger also revealed that his son dreams of following in his footsteps, with ambitions to play in Europe one day.

Why did Maeda leave Celtic?

While Maeda did not disclose specific reasons for his departure, sources suggest the move was driven by a desire for a new challenge and the opportunity to compete at a higher level. His record-breaking transfer fee reflects his impact at Celtic, where he scored 12 goals and provided 8 assists in the 2025-26 season. The club's recent form, including five consecutive wins, shows they remain a force in Scottish football despite his exit.

What's next for Celtic?

With Maeda gone, Celtic will look to reinforce their squad ahead of the new season. Their next fixture, a home clash against Heart of Midlothian on 17 October 2026, will be a key test as they aim to close the three-point gap to the league leaders. Manager Brendan Rodgers will need to find a replacement who can match Maeda's creativity and work rate if they are to challenge for the title.