Celtic Manager Eager to Retain Daizen Maeda Amid Transfer Speculation

Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy is keen to retain forward Daizen Maeda, emphasizing that the player is “really happy” at the Scottish champions following a blocked summer exit.

The 28-year-old Maeda had previously expressed a desire to leave the club in September, with former manager Brendan Rodgers noting that the Japan international had indicated his intentions back in February.

Under contract until June 2027, Maeda enjoyed a stellar 2024-25 season, scoring 33 goals, but has only found the net seven times this term. “He’s really happy here,” Nancy stated regarding Maeda, who has scored once in five starts since Nancy took over. “I know that he had the opportunity to leave before, but for now, he’s with us and content to be here. We would certainly like to keep him, and he is aware of that. I hope he stays.”

In discussing Maeda’s tactical role, Nancy highlighted the player’s versatility, noting his ability to function both centrally and on the left wing since joining from Yokohama F Marinos in 2022. “When he starts in the middle, he makes runs to the side to attack. When he begins on the wing, he makes runs towards the goal. This adaptability is crucial,” he explained. “He can also play as a number nine but thrives with support from his teammates. He has a knack for keeping possession while making runs and combining with others. Tactically, he adds significant value; I know that when he’s positioned on the wing, something positive is likely to occur. Alternatively, we can leverage his presence to create opportunities through the center.”

Celtic has struggled with finishing, recording four defeats and only one win since Nancy took charge, with a total of 29 goals from 17 league matches—19 less than the previous season at the same point.

When asked if acquiring a new striker was a priority for the January transfer window, Nancy replied, “Yes, but if you watched our recent 3-1 victory over Aberdeen, we squandered numerous chances that were not solely the responsibility of a forward. We will evaluate our options moving forward. My primary focus is analyzing my players, and then we will determine our next steps. While we may have intentions to make changes, there are factors beyond our control. We are not the only club competing for talent, and circumstances can vary.”

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