Football Today
·6 July 2023
Football Today
·6 July 2023
Celtic have announced that Japanese forward Daizen Maeda has committed his long-term future to the club following his impressive performances last season.
The 25-year-old Japan international has signed a new deal with the Scottish champions that will see him remain at Celtic Park until 2027.
Maeda played a prominent role in Celtic’s exceptional campaign last season. He registered 11 goals and seven assists in 49 appearances across all competitions, helping the Hoops claim a remarkable domestic treble.
The pacy winger was a prominent figure in the Celtic squad under Ange Postecoglou last term.
He will now look forward to defending their titles in the coming season under new manager Brendan Rodgers.
“It is a very happy moment for me and my family,” Maeda said after penning a new contract. “Celtic is a special club, so I’m very pleased to extend my stay here.
“When I signed, I said that my ultimate goal was to win the league, and we have done so twice. We have three trophies to defend, and we also have Champions League football, so I am excited to get started.”
Rodgers added: “Daizen has many qualities that I like in a player – high intensity, attack-minded, and his work rate on and off the ball is exceptional.
“He has played a key role in the team since he arrived, helping to secure yet another treble for the club, so I am delighted we have been able to secure a new deal with him.”
Maeda’s contract renewal with Celtic comes in the wake of news that his fellow countryman Kyogo Furuhashi has also pledged his long-term future to the club.
The 28-year-old centre-forward was a central figure in Celtic’s treble-winning campaign, finishing as the top scorer with 34 goals in 50 appearances across all competitions.
The Japanese duo have been key to Celtic’s success in recent seasons, and Rodgers will be counting on them as the Northern Irishman looks to bring further glory to Celtic Park.