‘Speed and Power’ Yamada offers more than Kyogo

In partnership with

The Celtic Star

·28. Juli 2025

‘Speed and Power’ Yamada offers more than Kyogo

Celtic’s cautious approach in the transfer market this summer may open the door for a modestly signed striker to make an immediate impact…

Shin Yamada of Celtic FC in action during Como Cup match played between Al-Ahli and Celtic FCat Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on July 26, 2025 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

With attacking options frustratingly lacking in both depth and quality, Shin Yamada could seize the opportunity to stake his claim as Celtic’s first-choice forward ahead of the Scottish Premiership opener this weekend. The Japanese forward made an immediate impression by scoring the winning penalty against Al-Ahli in the Como Cup at the weekend.

OneFootball Videos

Just a week into his time at Celtic, the 25-year-old has already shown he’s not short on confidence, ambition, or ability. Yamada entered the second half and immediately caught the eye with his sharp movement and constant desire to get in behind defenders. And after calmly converting the decisive penalty, he was quick to acknowledge the bar set by countryman Kyogo while also outlining exactly what sets him apart.

Shin Yamada of Celtic FC in action during Como Cup match played between Al-Ahli and Celtic FCat Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on July 26, 2025 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

“Obviously I heard all the news about Kyogo scoring goals for Celtic,” Yamada said, as reported by Daily Record.

“As players, I would say some parts of our game is similar. In front of goal, especially. However, I have something different which is speed and power. With that, I hope to perform as well as him and contribute to Celtic. I have speed at one-v-ones. I like to run behind the defenders. That is one of my strengths.”

Yamada thought he had bagged a debut goal from open play, only for the flag to go up for offside.

At the time he didn’t hide his frustration at the delay in the pass from Marco Tilio that cost him a memorable first strike — but that moment also gave fans a glimpse into the high standards he sets, both for himself and for those around him.

“I thought I had scored in the second-half but was off-side. I wish I had the pass earlier,” he explained. “But I have only come to the club for a week so we need to understand each other’s strengths better and have better connections.

Celtic new Japan striker Shin Yamada is unveiled during the pre-season friendly match between Celtic and Newcastle United at Celtic Park on July 19, 2025.. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

“I think that part will come soon. I am obviously a striker so personally my job is to score a lot of goals and I think that’s what I’m being asked to do at this club. I need to demand from my team-mates that they give me a pass in certain moments. That is a part of my game I need to improve with my team-mates.”

It’s clear Yamada is not here to ease in slowly. His determination, pace, and eye for goal — combined with his ability to hold teammates accountable – in a respectful but firm way — mark him out as a serious option to lead the line this season.

As Celtic fans grow increasingly anxious over a lack of attacking depth compared to last season, Yamada could emerge as Rodgers’ first-choice striker when the Hoops begin their Premiership title defence on Flag Day this Sunday against St Mirren.

Daizen Maeda of Celtic Ajax v Celtic, Como Cup Pre Season Football, Football, Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia, Como, Italy – 24 Jul 2025Como Stadio Giuseppe Sinigaglia Italy. Photo Shutterstock IMAGO

That would free up Daizen Maeda to operate on the left and allow Yang to occupy the right wing — potentially giving Celtic a mobile, high-pressing front three with goals and dynamism across the line.

“I am happy I took part in the game. And, of course, I am happy to have scored the winning penalty,” Yamada said. “I have only come to the club for a week…there is still much more to come.”

If his self-assessment proves accurate — and if he continues to back it up with performances — Celtic may already have an intriguing successor to Kyogo. Or better yet, a new version altogether faster, more powerful, and who now has to prove he can be just as lethal.

Shin Yamada and Viljami Sinisalo of Celtic FC celebrate the victory at the end of the Como Cup match between Al-Ahli and Celtic FC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on July 26, 2025 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Celtic fans — and Brendan Rodgers — will rightly continue to demand more quality reinforcements across the front three. But as the wait for new signings drags on, and on, and on – Shin Yamada will sense that opportunity is knocking.

And judging by his confident attitude, he sounds determined to answer Celtic’s call.

Niall J

Read this – The backstory to Celtic in the Eighties by David Potter

Thank you to everyone who has already pre-ordered the late David Potter’s last ever Celtic book, Celtic in the Eighties, which will be published on the fifth day of September by Celtic Star Books. The link to pre-order your copy is below…

Celtic in the Eighties by David Potter, out 5 September 2025. Available to pre-order now.

Help raise funds for Celtic Youth Academy by playing the Celtic Pools Weekly Lottery and you could win up to £25,000. The lottery is £1 per week. Click on image to join.