‘HE TURNED DOWN A HUGE CELTIC OFFER’ MARTIN O’NEILL DROPS BOMBSHELL ON DAIZEN MAEDA’S CELTIC EXIT AFTER IPSWICH MOVE

Martin O’Neill has revealed that Celtic made a determined effort to keep Daizen Maeda at the club before the Japanese forward completed his move to Premier League newcomers Ipswich Town.

The Celtic manager disclosed that the club presented Maeda with a lucrative new contract around 16 months before his departure, but the winger had already decided that he wanted to pursue a new challenge in either the English Premier League or the Bundesliga.

Maeda’s transfer brings an end to an unforgettable four-and-a-half-year spell at Celtic, where he established himself as one of the club’s most influential players through his relentless work ethic, important goals and tireless commitment.

Speaking after Celtic’s 2-2 pre-season draw against AC Milan at Celtic Park, O’Neill admitted losing the Japanese international would be a major disappointment.

“Yeah, naturally I will miss him. He was in his last year of his contract. The club, before I came here, made him a real big offer to stay at least 16 months ago.”

The manager explained that despite Celtic’s best efforts, Maeda had his sights set on testing himself in one of Europe’s biggest leagues.

“The lad refused to do it in the sense that he wanted to play in the Premier League if he could, or the Bundesliga if that’s the case. So I will obviously miss him, but I’m delighted for him at the same time.”

Although disappointed to see him leave, O’Neill insisted the move is fully deserved after everything Maeda has contributed to Celtic over the past four-and-a-half years.

“Genuinely delighted for him. He deserves the move. I think I said this last year, whether I was going to be here or not, he deserves the move because he’s been fantastic for the club.”

Since arriving from Yokohama F. Marinos in January 2022 alongside fellow Japanese internationals Reo Hatate and Yosuke Ideguchi, Maeda has become one of the most dependable performers at Parkhead.

His pace, pressing and remarkable work rate made him a nightmare for defenders, while his knack for delivering in crucial moments elevated him to hero status among the Celtic support.

Supporters will remember his lightning-fast goals immediately after kick-off, spectacular overhead kicks, decisive goals against Rangers and his composed penalty in a cup final shoot-out. Time after time, Maeda produced when Celtic needed him most.

O’Neill believes Ipswich are signing more than just an outstanding footballer.

“We will definitely miss him. We will just miss his presence around about the place. And I think Ipswich will be getting somebody that I think they will grow to really like.”

The Celtic boss also suggested that money was never the driving force behind Maeda’s decision to leave Glasgow.

“He’s 28, 29 years of age. I’m not so sure that the money has been his driving force, but he will do really well. And that’s good news. And he deserves it. He deserves it. Every single penny of it.”

Maeda leaves Celtic with an outstanding record after making 212 appearances, scoring 79 goals and providing 38 assists.

During his time at the club, he won five Scottish Premiership titles, three Scottish Cups and two League Cups, collecting ten major honours while also producing memorable performances in the Champions League.

Shortly after his transfer was confirmed, Maeda posted an emotional farewell message to Celtic supporters, reflecting on what he described as the most meaningful period of both his football career and personal life.

“The last four and a half years at Celtic have been the most special chapter of my career and my life. It has been an incredible honour to wear this badge, to play for this amazing club, and to share so many unforgettable moments with my teammates, the staff, and the best supporters in the world.”

The Japanese international thanked everyone who had supported him throughout his journey in Glasgow.

“Thank you for standing by me through every high and low. Your incredible support gave me strength every single day, and I will always be grateful.”

Maeda also expressed heartfelt appreciation to the people of Glasgow for welcoming his family.

“I would also like to thank everyone in Glasgow who welcomed and supported my wife and children. Because of your kindness and generosity, my family was able to enjoy an unforgettable time here. Glasgow will always hold a very special place in our hearts and will forever be our second home.”

Perhaps the most touching part of his farewell message centred on his young son.

“My son loves Celtic so much that he already says he wants to wear the Celtic shirt and play at Celtic Park one day. I truly hope that dream comes true, and I hope our family will be back here again someday.”

Maeda ended his message by expressing his gratitude to everyone connected with the Scottish champions.

“Thank you to everyone connected with Celtic for everything. Hail Hail.”

His farewell message sparked an emotional reaction from supporters, many describing him as one of the greatest modern-day Celtic players and thanking him for the passion, dedication and unforgettable memories he created during his time at Paradise.

While Celtic fans will undoubtedly miss one of their most committed and exciting players, there is also widespread appreciation that Maeda has earned the opportunity to test himself in the Premier League.

As he begins a new chapter with Ipswich Town, the Japanese forward leaves Glasgow with legendary status firmly intact, having written his name into Celtic’s modern history through unforgettable performances, relentless determination and a lasting bond with the club’s supporters.