When Daizen Maeda left Celtic by mutual consent, he took a huge chunk of the team's attacking prowess with him. The Japanese striker played a crucial role in Celtic's success over the past four years, contributing 79 goals and 38 assists in over 200 games.
Daizen Maeda arrived in Glasgow in late December 2022 on a loan deal from Yokohama F Marinos before making the switch permanent in the following summer. He quickly established himself as a key player under Ange Postecoglou, winning 10 trophies including five league titles, three Scottish Cups, and two League Cups.
Maeda's pace and energy were a huge asset to Celtic, but it was his ability to adapt to a new role that showcased his true worth. After failing to replace Kyogo Furuhashi up front, Celtic relied on Maeda to play through the middle for almost the entirety of last season. He initially struggled for form, scoring just one goal in 18 games and not scoring in 11 matches before the league split.
However, Maeda turned things around when it mattered most, scoring seven goals in five Premiership matches, two of which were game-winning. His most memorable moment came on the final day of the season when he scored the second goal in a 2-1 win over Hearts, securing Celtic's title.
Maeda's final game for Celtic was a comfortable Scottish Cup final win over Dunfermline Athletic, with him opening the scoring. While many fans will be sad to see him go, they probably feel it is deserved for a player that has contributed so much.
Celtic's departure from Maeda provides even more evidence that the team needs to act in the transfer market, and fast. As of late July, they have made just one new signing, Qarabag striker Camilo Duran. With the hugely influential Maeda gone, and international team-mate Reo Hatate likely to follow, the squad is in grave need of quality additions.
The departure of Maeda and potential loss of Reo Hatate will leave Celtic with a huge hole to fill, and it remains to be seen how the team will adapt to the change.
Source: Yahoo Sports