Daizen Maeda may have played his last game for Celtic, ending it off on a high note with a 3-1 victory over Dunfermline in the Scottish Cup final.
For weeks, he has been on an absolutely incredible run of form since the split began, scoring nine goals and registering two assists. His performances helped the team to an incredible double, and now, teams will be lining up for his signature.
After almost moving to Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga last summer, he deserves a chance at something new. The move falling through clearly rattled him a bit at the start of the season, but he has done well to bring it back, and good performances at the upcoming World Cup could have even more teams banging on the door.
Wherever he goes, the Hoops will always be in his heart. The time may have come for him to leave, but he certainly didn't do it without saying goodbye.
Speaking to fans after helping Celtic to the double, he said: "It’s been a pleasure to play in front of you guys, and that’s why we got the double this season. So I’m very happy about it.
He also touched on how he has been feeling recently: "My performance increased towards the end, so I feel bad for that. Well, the goal against Rangers was the best."
Maeda also touched on his future aspirations recently. He said: "I want to take the next step and play in the Premier League, which has always been my goal.
"Right now, I’m grateful to Celtic and I’m giving it my all. But I haven’t seen my limits yet.
"The Premier League is a dream I’ve been talking about since I was a kid.
"Even if it’s just for one year, I want to prove just how far my speed can take me at the highest level in the world."
An incredible farewell for Maeda
With him scoring in the cup final, there was no better way to send him off. He would've enjoyed the incredible celebrations with the fans, but now, his focus will be turning to the World Cup.
At least, Celtic fans will be able to see what he can bring to the world stage. If he can keep up his goalscoring antics, he will be a massive asset to Japan, and maybe he can achieve his dream of playing in the English top flight.
Maybe the Japanese forward and the Hoops will reunite in the future. You never know what can happen in football...
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