Daizen Maeda may well have played his final game for Celtic and if that proves to be the case, he signed off in fitting fashion.
The Japanese forward scored once again during Celtic’s Scottish Cup Final win over Dunfermline at Hampden, continuing a staggering run of form that ultimately powered Martin O’Neill’s side to the domestic double.
Maeda has now scored in each of Celtic’s last seven matches, producing nine goals and two assists during that stretch.
When Celtic needed someone to drag them over the line during the title run-in, it was Maeda who delivered.
His form completely transformed the season.
And with growing expectation that he will finally leave the club this summer, the scenes after the final carried an emotional feel.
Celtic blocked a move to Wolfsburg for Maeda last summer despite strong interest from Germany.
The deal had progressed so far that the forward had already packed and emptied his locker before the move collapsed because Celtic were unable to secure a replacement before the deadline.
Since then, he went on a poor run before he arguably produced the best football of his Celtic career.
Now though, there is a growing feeling this summer could finally be the moment he moves on.
After the cup final victory, Maeda appeared to send an emotional message to supporters gathered at Celtic Park for the trophy celebrations.
Speaking to fans, he said:
“It’s been a pleasure to play in front of you guys and that’s why we got the double this season.
“So I’m very happy about it.”
The wording can immediately be interpreted as a possible farewell message.
If it was goodbye, few players could leave on a stronger note.
From scoring the crucial second goal against Hearts to his stunning overhead kick against Rangers to his relentless performances throughout the final weeks of the season, Maeda delivered when Celtic needed him most and cemented himself as one of the defining figures of another trophy-winning campaign.
