Daizen Maeda has refused to rule out a Celtic exit this summer as speculation around his future continues to grow ahead of the World Cup.
The Japanese forward was heavily linked with Wolfsburg last summer before the move eventually collapsed late in the window. At the time, Celtic were reluctant to lose one of the few attackers in the squad capable of stretching games consistently with pace and relentless pressing.
This season started poorly for Maeda. His finishing deserted him during the early months and there were periods where frustration grew around his end product. But as the campaign developed, especially after Martin O’Neill returned, Maeda became one of Celtic’s driving forces again.
By the end of the season he looked sharp physically and decisive in front of goal. Celtic’s press became far more aggressive with him leading it and defenders struggled badly once matches opened up late on. His performances during the title run-in only increased outside interest.
The biggest question now is timing. Maeda turns 29 later this year and a strong World Cup could push his value even higher. Celtic know replacing his energy off the ball would be difficult as much as replacing goals themselves.
Maeda addressed both his form and his future while speaking ahead of the tournament.
He said: (Daily Record), “I wasn’t in great form at the beginning of the season, but I’ve been getting into better shape towards the end.
“I think I can maintain this momentum and get a good result at the World Cup.
“I don’t know the reason.
“Even when things weren’t going well, I continued to work hard as I always have.
“I think there’s a good chance this will be my last (World Cup), so I want to enjoy it.
“I want to fight with all my might, score goals, and contribute to the team’s victory. I want to show the Japanese people what it means to fight with all your might.”
The interesting part of the interview was probably what Maeda avoided saying rather than what he confirmed directly. There was no strong commitment either way regarding Celtic beyond the World Cup.
That uncertainty will naturally fuel speculation through the summer. Premier League and Bundesliga clubs have tracked him before and his profile suits high-intensity football. He presses constantly, recovers shape quickly and can turn broken matches into chaos for defenders within seconds.
Celtic supporters have seen all of that at its best during the second half of the season. The challenge now may be convincing him there is still another chapter left in Glasgow.
fed up hearing mon decisive comments from players going or coming in how can you replace aman if hes not gone put a price on his head make his mind up