Glasgow | Celtic fans respond to Maeda exit

Is this a big loss for Celtic?

Daizen Maeda's move to promoted Premier League side Ipswich Town was confirmed. We asked for the views of several Celtic fans

Author | Sean M

Maeda: Happy to Fulfil Premier League Dream With Town #itfc #celtic #celticfc #scottishpremiership #samuraiblue #JPN #日本代表 #サムライブルー

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— TWTD.co.uk (@twtdcouk.bsky.social) 25 July 2026 at 15:23

James: Nothing short of a Celtic legend in my eyes. He may not have been the most technically gifted player, but his pace, relentless energy and tireless work rate more than compensated. I was won over by Daizen Maeda almost from the moment he made his debut. Not every display reached the highest level, but it was rare to see him produce anything below a solid performance. It is sad to see him leave and I wish him every success. Hopefully he gets plenty of opportunities at Ipswich to show what he can do, perhaps as much for himself as anyone else.

Iain: Daizen Maeda was badly let down by Celtic at the last minute and found life difficult at the start of last season. But when the title race was in danger of slipping away, he almost single-handedly dragged Celtic through, helped by Martin O'Neill's influence and force of personality. The club owes him a great deal and he would always receive a warm welcome back at Celtic Park.

Alex: £10 million for a player entering the final year of his contract represents good business. Even so, I am not convinced Celtic will ever replace his energy. Goals can be found elsewhere, but his relentless intensity is far harder to replicate, and that is the biggest concern.

Edward: His overhead kick against Rangers was a moment of genuine brilliance and I feel fortunate to have been there to witness it. Players with Maeda's unique qualities do not come around often in Scottish football, and I consider myself lucky to have watched a true Celtic great over the past four seasons.

Gordan: Daizen will be remembered for his total commitment to the Celtic cause. He was an excellent player in his first season and developed into an outstanding one during the rest of his time at Parkhead. His endless running, goals and determination will live long in the memory. I thank him for everything he contributed to the club's success and the trophies he helped deliver. Like every Celtic supporter, I wish him all the best at Ipswich.

Andy: Although he did not possess the natural talent of some others, his approach to the game was second to none. An exceptional athlete with an incredible desire to win, he earned every penny and every medal in a Celtic shirt. He will be a huge loss and £10 million looks an absolute bargain. It would be no surprise if, within a few months, clubs much bigger than Ipswich are wondering how they overlooked him. Above all, he leaves as a humble man who carried himself with dignity and courage.