Celtic’s Daizen Maeda wears captain’s armband and delivers for Japan
Important performance for Maeda who seeks to be a key player for Celtic's future.
Amid a challenging period for Celtic domestically, their players continue to shine on the international stage. One of the most striking examples is Daizen Maeda, who played a key role for Japan in their 1-0 friendly victory over Scotland.
The Japanese forward not only started the match but also wore the captain’s armband, reflecting his importance to the team and his leadership both on and off the pitch.
Daizen Maeda is a standout for Japan in the international break
He played 62 minutes, posting impressive statistics on SofaScore: consistent involvement in the game, a high pass completion rate, and an active presence in both attack and defense.
He made 5 defensive contributions, one interception, and won 4 out of 5 duels, demonstrating his usual physical prowess and tactical commitment.
Although he didn’t find the net in attack—his only shot going wide—his impact on the team’s performance was undeniable.
Japan displayed a solid and organized unit, with Maeda playing a key role in the team’s pressing and transitions.
This performance comes at a time when his future at Celtic is not entirely clear, but performances like this reinforce his value within the squad.
Looking ahead to next season, if he remains at the club, Maeda is expected to be an important piece in the team’s rebuilding, contributing leadership, intensity, and international experience.
