Daizen Maeda opens up on Celtic after exit and reveals son dream amid stunning record purchase
Japanese forward sold to Ipswich but striker set to sign
Daizen Maeda has called his time at Celtic “the most special chapter” of his career as he penned an emotional farewell to the club’s support.
Maeda completed his move to English Premier League new boys Ipswich Town on Saturday in a deal that could earn Celtic up to £10 million.
The 28-year-old Japanese leaves after a four-and-a-half years at Celtic, where he won numerous trophies and awards to become a darling of the Parkhead support.
Maeda took to social media after his move to Ipswich was announced and thanked the fans for their backing during his time at Celtic.
“To the Celtic family,” he wrote, “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.
“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.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone in Glasgow who welcomed and supported my family.
“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.
“My son loves Glasgow 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.
“Hail hail.”
Life after Maeda at Celtic continues apace as the club tries to reinforce its squad for the upcoming campaign. And they are closing in on their second signing of the summer, with multiple reports claiming a transfer upwards of £11m has been agreed for Bodo/Glimt striker Kasper Hogh.
The 25-year-old Dane is set to pen a long-term deal with Celtic after Parkhead officials agreed what would be a record fee for the Glasgow club.
Celtic have already spent close to £6m on Colombian forward Camilo Duran, who joined from Qarabag earlier this month.
Celtic are in action on Saturday afternoon when they take on Italian side AC Milan in their final pre-season fixture ahead of the Premiership campaign beginning next weekend.
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