Daizen Maeda is the epitome of relentless energy. Often described as Celtic’s own Japanese Duracell, his high-intensity, all-action performances week in and week out make him look like a player who never needs a rest. This was evident once again on Wednesday night in the Champions League, where his tireless efforts helped Celtic earn a crucial draw against Club Brugge, keeping their European hopes alive. Even when he’s not on the pitch, Maeda remains active, spending his downtime with his daughter Soyo and son Tensei at a soft-play activity center. However, as Celtic enters a critical period in their season, Maeda may eventually need a break.
Over the next few weeks, Brendan Rodgers’ squad will face a punishing schedule. In just 11 days, Celtic will play four matches that could define their campaign. First, they’ll travel to Pittodrie to face Aberdeen, followed by a Premiership clash with Hibernian at Parkhead. After that, Maeda and his teammates will head to Croatia for a Champions League showdown with Dinamo Zagreb, where a win could almost guarantee a place in the play-offs. A few days later, they’ll face Rangers at Hampden in the Premier Sports Cup Final, aiming for the first silverware in their pursuit of a domestic Treble. Despite the tough fixtures ahead, Maeda insists that he wants to be involved in every game, though he acknowledges that squad rotation will be essential as the schedule intensifies.
Maeda is confident that the strength of Celtic’s squad will shine through over the coming weeks. With players like James Forrest, Yang, Luis Palma, Paulo Bernardo, Luke McCowan, and Adam Idah all eager for playing time, Maeda believes this period will reveal the true depth of the team. He emphasized that every player must prove their worth, especially with so many games on the horizon. “No club who plays this many games can possibly go with the same starting 11 every time,” Maeda said. “It’s up to whoever is picked to prove themselves because we always need to win.” He added that the focus for Celtic should be on winning the next game, regardless of the opponent or competition, and then moving on to the next challenge.
Known for his unyielding work rate and stamina, Maeda has already scored double-digit goals this season, including two in the Champions League. Yet, when it comes to relaxation, his approach is unique. On his days off, Maeda takes his kids to soft-play centers, a pastime that helps him recover and recharge. He said, “How do I recover? By playing with my 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 it works for me.”
Maeda’s goal against Club Brugge was his 10th of the season and came at a pivotal moment in the Champions League. Despite Celtic being under pressure for much of the game, Maeda’s strike was crucial in securing a point. Reflecting on the match, he noted that Champions League games are tough but full of lessons. “One point in any Champions League game is a good point. We have to focus on the next one now,” he said. Although Brugge dominated for long stretches, Celtic’s resilience showed, especially after an own goal from Cameron Carter-Vickers put them behind. Maeda was quick to back his teammate, stating, “Cameron has been a leader for this team and he will keep being so. It was not only his fault; it was the team, and we all take part of the responsibility.” Despite the setback, Celtic’s collective spirit was evident, symbolized by the team huddle after the goal, signaling their determination to fight back and secure a result.
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