New Celtic signing Shin Yamada will wear the iconic No.18 shirt as he begins his career in Glasgow, stepping into a jersey worn by some notable names in the club’s history.
The Japanese forward arrives on a four-year deal from Kawasaki Frontale and is the latest in a line of high-profile wearers of the number. Club captain turned manager Neil Lennon once wore No.18 during his playing days, while Tom Rogic made the shirt his own with a string of memorable moments, including title-winning goals and derby heroics.
The number has also been worn by Tosh McKinlay, Massimo Donati and, more recently, Yamada’s fellow countryman Yuki Kobayashi.
Born in Yokohama, Yamada progressed through Toin University of Yokohama before signing a designated player deal with Kawasaki. He lifted the Japanese Super Cup in 2024 and is known for his movement off the ball and sharp instincts inside the box.
Speaking after signing, Yamada told Celticfc.tv:
“It is a huge honour for me to be here as a Celtic player and I can’t wait to begin my time at this amazing club.
Celtic is one of the top names in world football. I have already watched my countrymen like Daizen, Reo and Kyogo do so well at Celtic and I will aim to have the same impact.
I am my own player, though, and I am ready to face all my own challenges directly.”
He added:
“I want to do so well at Celtic. I know that Celtic Park is one of the best places in the world to play football with the best supporters around and I will do everything I can to make my new fans proud of me.
I promise I will give everything I have to bring our fans success.”
Yamada is expected to join the team initially to be assessed by manager Brendan Rodgers before any decisions are made, but supporters will be keen to see him follow in the footsteps of those who made the No.18 shirt so memorable.
