Celtic boss Wilfried Nancy addresses Maeda situation and reveals January plans in his press conference ahead of Livingston this weekend
Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy has provided a detailed update on Daizen Maeda’s future at the club while outlining his thinking ahead of the January transfer window as the Hoops prepare for a crucial second half of the season.
Maeda content at Celtic
Nancy moved to reassure supporters that Maeda is happy at the club and not actively seeking a move when the transfer window opens. The forward had previously been linked with a departure after attracting interest from clubs abroad, but the Celtic boss played down any immediate risk of losing one of his most important attacking players.
He said; “Maeda is enjoying his football at Celtic and understands how important he is to the team. Nancy added that the club would like to keep him and hopes he remains part of the project moving forward.
Maeda has been a key figure since joining Celtic from Yokohama F Marinos in January 2022. His relentless work rate, versatility and eye for goal have made him a fan favourite. This season he has continued to contribute with goals and assists across domestic and European competitions, underlining his importance to Nancy’s system.
The Celtic manager made it clear that while speculation is inevitable during transfer windows, the club’s stance is focused on stability and continuity rather than disruption.
January window assessment
Nancy also addressed Celtic’s approach to the January transfer window, stressing that any business will be guided by careful evaluation rather than panic. He admitted that the squad still has room for improvement but insisted his priority is to properly assess his players before requesting reinforcements.
He explained that it is his responsibility to analyse the squad in detail and then decide what is needed. Nancy suggested that balance and depth will be key considerations as Celtic look to compete on multiple fronts during the second half of the campaign.
Celtic have already been linked with several potential targets, including young defensive prospects and attacking reinforcements. While the manager declined to discuss individual names, he did not rule out adding players if the right opportunities arise.
Injuries to key figures earlier in the season have highlighted the need for depth, particularly in attack and midfield. January could therefore prove important as Celtic look to maintain momentum in the league and remain competitive in cup competitions.
Pressure and progress
Nancy’s early months at Celtic have been challenging. A difficult start to his tenure saw the club endure a run of defeats that placed him under immediate scrutiny. However, recent performances have shown signs of improvement, and the manager believes the team is beginning to adapt to his ideas.
Off the pitch, Celtic have also experienced turbulence following the announcement that chairman Peter Lawwell will step down after citing intolerable abuse. The development has added to the sense of transition at the club, but Nancy remains focused on football matters.
Former players and pundits have offered mixed opinions on Nancy’s methods, with some calling for patience while others have urged quicker results. The Celtic boss has remained calm amid the noise, insisting that progress takes time and requires collective belief.
Looking ahead
Nancy’s message to supporters is one of measured optimism. Retaining key players like Maeda, strengthening the squad where necessary and improving consistency remain central to Celtic’s ambitions.
With the January window approaching, the manager hopes clarity around his squad will allow the club to make smart decisions rather than reactive ones. For now, the focus remains on results on the pitch as Celtic aim to build momentum and close the gap at the top of the table.
Celtic fans will be watching closely as January approaches, with Maeda’s future and potential new signings likely to dominate discussion in the weeks ahead.
