Shin Yamada has revealed that a key conversation with Reo Hatate helped convince him to join Celtic this summer.
Yamada has been tipped as one for the future, with Celtic adding to their growing number of Japanese talent. He joins countrymen Daizen Maeda, Hayato Inamura, and Hatate at Lennoxtown.
Celtic’s support system for players from Japan appears to be a major draw, with Yamada pointing to an impressive off-field setup that includes an interpreter and advice from those who’ve made the same journey. He’s already begun working on his English and is keen to immerse himself in a new culture.
He said: (RecordSport), “The staff from at Celtic have told me some things. I have also done some research of my own.
“I have been speaking with Reo and the other guys. I had a video call with Reo before I came over and we had a good chat about everything.
“He gave me some good recommendations. Having Daizen and Ina here as other Japanese players has also helped me. The club even has an excellent interpreter who has helped me on and off the pitch.
“I plan to learn English myself, having started studying in Japan. I will study more when I get to Scotland but at the moment the language seems very fast!”
Having familiar faces around is clearly helping Yamada settle in, as he arrives hoping to make an impact in the Hoops. Celtic’s strong links with Japan have created a setup where new signings can adjust quickly and concentrate on their football.
Yamada’s excitement about joining the club is a good sign. He might not be involved with the first team right away, but Celtic will be watching closely as he works on his game. Brendan Rodgers has spoken about creating chances for young players, and Yamada looks like he’ll be part of that approach.
It’ll take time for him to pick up the language and get used to the pace and style of the Scottish game, but he seems ready for the task. With his fellow Japanese players and strong support from the club, his move to Glasgow could be a smooth one.
