Daizen Maeda

Daizen Maeda Scout Report

**Player Profile**
Name: Daizen Maeda
Age: 27 (DOB: 20/10/1997)
Nationality: Japanese
Club: Celtic FC (Scottish Premiership)
Position: Primary – Left Winger; Versatile as RW, AM, or SS
Height/Weight: 173 cm / 68 kg
Preferred Foot: Right
Contract: Expires 2027 (extended July 2023)
Market Value: ~€10-12M (est.)
International: 20+ caps for Japan, key in World Cup/Asian Cup squads

**Physical Attributes**
Maeda’s elite athleticism defines him. Exceptional pace (top sprint speeds 35 km/h) and stamina allow relentless pressing—often called a “machine” by coaches. His agility aids quick directional changes, but modest height limits aerial duels (wins 40%). High endurance supports 90+ min performances, recovering rapidly between sprints.

**Technical Abilities**
Strong dribbling in transition (70% success rate in take-ons). Finishing has improved markedly; clinical inside box with curled shots or taps-ins. Passing is functional (85% accuracy), focusing on quick layoffs rather than creativity. Crossing varies—effective from left but inconsistent. Ball control solid under pressure, though first touch can falter at high speeds.

**Tactical Role**
Thrives in high-pressing systems like Celtic’s under Rodgers. Leads counter-press, winning possession high up (top 10% in recoveries). Off-ball movement exploits channels; cuts inside from left or stretches play wide. Defensively diligent, tracking back as a “wing-back forward.” Versatile in 4-3-3/4-2-3-1, but best as LW in fluid attacks. In Japan NT, similar role emphasizing transitions.

**Strengths**
– **Pressing & Work Rate**: Unmatched intensity; forces errors, regains ball (e.g., 5.2 pressures/90 in SPL).
– **Pace & Directness**: Explosive runs terrorize defenses; 23 goals in J1 (2021) showcased this.
– **Goal Threat**: Prolific 2024-25 (33 goals/51 apps across comps), including 4 UCL goals—tied Japanese record.
– **Durability**: Rarely injured; consistent starter (120+ SPL apps since 2022).
– **Mentality**: Humble, team-oriented; thrives in big games (Old Firm goals).

**Weaknesses**
– **Finishing Consistency**: Misses big chances (0.53/90 in 2024-25, but 0 this season per BBC). Recent form dips suggest fatigue from NT duties.
– **Aerial Ability**: Struggles in duels (wins 50%); not a target man.
– **Creativity**: Low key passes (1.2/90); relies on others for setup.
– **Decision-Making**: Occasionally wasteful in 1v1s or overcommits defensively.

**Recent Performance & Stats (as of Oct 2025)**
2025-26: 13 apps, 3 goals, 3 assists (SPL/UCL). Strong start but form waned; still vital in press (e.g., goal vs. Motherwell).
Career at Celtic (171 apps): 65 goals, 25 assists. Peak 2024-25: 16 SPL goals, 7 Scottish Cup, 4 UCL. Ratings avg. 7.1/10 (WhoScored est.). xG overperformance (+5 in 2024-25) shows efficiency. Japan: 5 goals in 25 caps.

**Potential & Recommendation**
At 27, Maeda’s prime; could excel in faster leagues (e.g., EPL interest from Arsenal/Tottenham). Suited for pressing sides like Liverpool. Transfer fee: £20-25M. Scout Rating: 8/10—proven winner, but needs rotation to avoid burnout. Ideal for top-tier clubs seeking dynamic forwards. #daizenmaeda #celtic #premiership #japanfootball #scoutfootballer