Daizen Maeda insists he remains as committed as ever to Celtic, brushing aside speculation linking him with a move away from the Hoops this summer.
The Japanese international has been a massive players for the Hoops, especially over the past season where his relentless energy and direct running proved decisive in key moments.
Rumours have begun swirling around his future, with reports emerging of interest from Turkish giants Fenerbahce. Yet Maeda has moved to play down talk of a summer exit, reiterating his enjoyment at being part of the Celtic squad.
He said: (Celtic FC), “Since I’ve joined Celtic, I’ve been playing football with joy.
“There is no difference between now and the past. I still enjoy playing here.”
Maeda’s comments are good news for Brendan Rodgers as he gets ready for the new season. The Irishman really values Maeda’s hard work and intelligent finishing—things that made him a key player for both Rodgers and Ange Postecoglou.
He’s also very flexible. Maeda mainly plays up front, either through the middle or on the left, but he’s just as useful when pressing high and running non-stop. That kind of flexibility has caught the eye of clubs outside Scotland.
The 27-year-old joined Celtic from Yokohama F. Marinos in 2022 and has been an important part of the team since then, both in the league and in Europe.
With transfer rumours growing, Maeda’s clear message that he’s happy in Glasgow is a reminder that not all speculation means a player is leaving. For now, Celtic fans can be glad one of their hardest-working players is still focused on the club.
