Ange Postecoglou leaving Celtic, merely days after guiding them to a historic treble, was a major blow for sure. But the club went ahead and brought back the best man for the job possible in the form of Brendan Rodgers. It might not have been a popular decision amongst many, but the Northern Irishman did win seven trophies during his first run at Parkhead and transformed the team into a treble-winning machine.
Thus, there are hopes surrounding Rodgers once again. Many fans were worried though, what his arrival would mean for some of the players already at the club.
Most of the current squad had been assembled under the management of Postecoglou. And there were doubts whether some would fit Rodgers’ plans.
Kyogo signing a new contract was a big statement of intent though. And now, another starter has put pen on paper, on an extension.
Celtic make announcement as doubts proven wrong
As reported by Celtic’s official website, Daizen Maeda has also signed a new contract with the club. It will run until June 2027.
Maeda was signed in January of 2022 from Yokohama F. Marinos, Postecoglou’s former club. And after an up-and-down start to life at Parkhead, he came into his own in the middle of last season. Since then, he has been a nailed on starter for the Hoops and played a major part in their triumphs last season.
Maeda brings something to the table that very few do, and that is the ability to push the opposition for the entire game. Some fans have wondered though, whether he has the attributes to be a starter in Rodgers’ team. Only time shall tell. It is clear though that the club are counting on him for the future as well and view him as a major part of their plans, which is proven by his long-term deal.