Credit: Imago

Evan Shaw

Fri 15 May 2026 9:30, UK

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Celtic are facing a crossroads regarding the future of Daizen Maeda this summer as they prepare to potentially transition into the reign of a new manager.

The Japan international has been a hugely influential figure for the Bhoys in recent years, as his goals have helped to spearhead multiple Scottish Premiership title triumphs at Parkhead.

The 28-year-old managed a staggering 33 goals and 11 assists in all competition across the 2024-25 campaign, but his levels have dropped back down again this term.

Maeda has faced his fair share of criticism from supporters as Martin O’Neill’s men have laboured at times, but he has stepped up for them when it has mattered most of late.

Celtic are facing a major overhaul in their squad ahead of next season, and a final decision desperately needs to be made on Maeda’s future, given that he is set to enter the final year of his contract.

Daizen Maeda league-leading stat shows he’s not consistent enough

Maeda has been Celtic’s go-to man once again of late, as he has notched seven goals in his last five games in all competitions to help the Bhoys towards two potential trophies.

That run includes a strike in the Scottish Cup semi-final, and also a goal in each of his team’s four post-split fixtures, which are the most important games of the entire campaign.

Maeda’s finishing has hit another level of late, with his jaw-dropping overhead kick against Rangers going viral and catching attention all around the world.

However, that hasn’t always been the case for him this season, and it is the reason why Celtic must be ruthless when it comes to their decision on him this summer.

The frontman’s tally of 24 big chances missed in the Premiership in 2025-26 stands him well clear of every other player in the league, and that completely highlights why he is not worthy of an extension.

Maeda’s efforts may help Celtic get away with winning the title despite an uncharacteristically poor year this time around, but he is simply not consistent enough to help them reach the next level as a team.

They are looking towards a new era at the club for next season, and they cannot allow Maeda’s recent form to cloud their judgement, and detract from the fact that they should be looking to cash in.

Celtic already planning Maeda sale opportunity

Football Insider revealed at the start of March that Celtic are already preparing to cash in on Maeda this summer, rather than risk losing him on a free transfer next year.

Both parties are beginning to come to terms with the fact that it could be a natural place for their partnership to end, with the player understood to be keen to explore a new challenge.

A new contract would obviously provide Celtic with further security regarding his future, but there has been little indication that Maeda is keen to explore that possibility.

Wtih that in mind, they are undoubtedly better served accepting any appealing offers that come their way this summer, knowing that they need a stronger option to continue their domestic dominance long-term.