Daizen Maeda’s contribution to Celtic since joining from Yokohama F. Marinos in December 2021 has been immense, particularly due to his relentless work rate and defensive pressing. Brendan Rodgers, the Celtic manager, has been particularly vocal in praising Maeda, highlighting his extraordinary pressing ability and defensive contributions from the front line. Rodgers even labeled Maeda as one of the best in the world when it comes to the defensive press.
Maeda’s former coaches at Yokohama F. Marinos have also shared similar sentiments. Arthur Papas, who was Yokohama’s assistant manager during Maeda’s time at the club, described the Japanese winger’s athleticism as “far superior to most players at the pro level,” particularly emphasizing his extraordinary fitness. According to Papas, Maeda’s ability to maintain his speed and energy levels throughout the match is what sets him apart from many other players.
Similarly, Shaun Ontong, another coach from Yokohama, praised Maeda’s incredible stamina and ability to repeat high-intensity sprints late into the game, even in the 80th or 90th minute. Ontong emphasized that while many quick players need time to recover after a sprint, Maeda’s ability to sustain his pace and intensity makes him unique and highly valuable to any team.
In addition to his pressing, Maeda has recently started adding more goals to his game, including his first Champions League goal against Slovan Bratislava. His role in Celtic’s title defense and potential European success this season will undoubtedly be crucial.
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