Daizen Maeda to thank Celtic supporters ahead of kick-off | OneFootball

Daizen Maeda will be at the game today to thank the Celtic supporters and say a proper farewell before the Glasgow Derby kicks off…

Daizen Maeda of Celtic scores the third goal via bicycle kick during the Scottish Premiership match between Celtic and Rangers at Celtic Park on May 10, 2026. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

It’s been revealed by Celtic that the club legend Daizen Maeda will return to Celtic Park today as he wants to say a ‘proper’ farewell to the supporters who worshiped him over the past for four and a half years.

Considering our current situation, we could well be doing with Daizen pulling on the hoops whilst he’s at it, considering his terrific record in this fixture. Celtic FC revealed all on the official club website, with the full statement below:

Former Celtic star Daizen Maeda will be back at Celtic Park on Sunday to say a fond farewell to supporters prior to kick-off.

As he was not able to do so prior to completing his move to EPL side Ipswich Town, Daizen has asked Celtic for the opportunity to thank the fans personally for all the support he and his family received during his four and a half years in Scotland.

He will do so on the pitch ten minutes prior to kick-off at the Glasgow Derby this Sunday.

Daizen was instrumental in delivering Celtic’s League and Cup double last year, particularly through his efforts in the final weeks of the season, making a phenomenal and unique contribution in that time which has been recognised by our fans.

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – MAY 16: Daizen Maeda of Celtic (C) celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammates Callum McGregor (L) and Kelechi Iheanacho (R) during the William Hill Premiership match between Celtic and Heart of Midlothian at Celtic Park on May 16, 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

In a trophy laden Celtic career, Daizen won 10 trophies in total including 5 Premiership titles, three Scottish Cups and 2 Scottish League Cups with the club, making 212 appearances and scoring 79 goals in all competitions for the Champions.

Daizen Maeda of Celtic applauds the fans at full-time following the victory in the Scottish Premiership match between Celtic and the Rangers at Celtic Park on May 10, 2026. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Daizen swept the boards in season 2024/25 as Club, SPFL and PFA Scotland Player of the year. The iconic Japanese forward has secured his place in Celtic’s history with his achievements in the famous green & white hoops.

We are sure fans will be delighted to show their appreciation to someone who gave so much to the club and wish him well for the future.

Daizen Maeda of Celtic celebrates after he scores his team’s third goal via bicycle kick during the Scottishl Premiership match between Celtic and Rangers at Celtic Park on May 10, 2026. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

So it seems we are all going to hear his sone one more time and 60,000 Celtic fans will get the chance to ROAR…

MAEDA!

…just before the teams come out. Daizen doing his bit to terrify the Rangers. Nothing much changes…

Just an Ordinary Bhoy

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