Daizen Maeda has revealed an unconventional method for recovery that keeps him sharp during Celtic’s hectic schedule: spending time at soft play centres with his children.
As Celtic face a big run of five matches in 15 days, including domestic clashes and Champions League fixtures, Maeda’s approach shows his balance between elite football at the top level and family life.
Midweek, the Japanese winger scored a stunner to pull Celtic level against Club Brugge, despite not impressing in the first half.
While many players rely on traditional recovery methods such as ice baths and massages, Maeda finds rejuvenation in playing with his children: [SunSport]
“I recover my energy by playing with the kids.
“After a lot of games I take them to soft play centres and that refreshes me.
“Maybe I have a different way of relaxing from the others, but that works for me.
“I want to play every game, so it’s up to me to recover as well as possible, so that hopefully I will keep starting.”
In Celtic’s 5-0 victory over Ross County, Maeda was substituted at halftime, allowing South Korean winger Yang Hyun-jun to take his place.
While Yang’s performances have been mixed, Brendan Rodgers continues to provide opportunities for the young talent, trusting in his potential to adapt to Celtic’s demands.
Maeda’s willingness to embrace rotation ensures the squad remains fresh, with emerging players like Yang gaining valuable experience.
Maeda will likely start again on Wednesday, as Celtic travel to Aberdeen to face the team in second place in the evening kick off.
Celtic have drawn to Aberdeen at Celtic Park before thrashing the Dons 6-0 at Hampden.
Diazen is a well-balanced, intelligent and warm human being who obviously understands the importance of a good family life. This contributes to his general well-being in spades. His upbringing in Japan which is founded on respect for others is important too. It is no wonder that he has a quite different approach to keeping himself ready. He is worthy of the praise and respect that comes his way. A very fine player and human being.