Celtic striker Daizen Maeda has finally explained the true meaning behind his interesting goal celebration.
In the past, it was revealed that the celebration was to do with Japanese cartoon character Anpanman. Maeda stated this himself back when he first joined the club.
However, that didn’t exactly tell the whole story. Why, for example, was he doing it in the first place? What significance does the character have with Maeda himself?
Well, now he’s explained exactly what the motivation behind it is – his daughter. Maeda explained all in the Celtic View [Volume 57, Issue 3, Page 22], and it’s certainly a touching message from the Hoops striker:
“It’s a cartoon hero, Anpanman, and when I was watching the cartoon with my daughter she does the same thing he does. I thought it was cute so I decided to do it myself as a tribute to her when I score my goals.”
MORE CELTIC STORIES
Maeda has shown it off consistently since arriving at Parkhead, netting 6 goals in 14 appearances for the Hoops this term [Transfermarkt].
“The pressure is all on Rangers” | Scott McDonald on Celtic’s massive Ibrox opportunity
Celtic fans will hopefully see plenty more of Daizen Maeda’s trademark celebration
Celtic fans have certainly enjoyed the performances of Maeda since his January switch from Yokohama Marinos. Granted, how signature celebration has always been an interesting puzzle. Now it’s been cleared up and you’ve simply got to love the gesture.
It’s fair to say that on the pitch Daizen has certainly surprised many. As much as we knew of his capabilities as a left-winger, it initially looked as though he was coming in as a centre-forward.
Whilst debate may vary on what Maeda’s strongest position actually is, he seems to have tied down the left-wing position as his own. In recent times, Ange Postecoglou has moved Jota over to the right with Maeda operating as a tireless left-sided attacker.
You have to say it’s been working well too. Despite a slow start, Maeda has won over the trust of the supporters. His incredible work ethic and determination to chase down lost causes haven’t gone unnoticed. It’s a large part of why the Celtic support have gotten right behind him.
Next up? A huge crunch clash at Ibrox in which Celtic could more or less seal the league title with a win. If Maeda could make himself the hero in that one, it’ll do wonders for his career.
Granted, even at this early stage, he looks to have an exciting long-term future at the club regardless. Hopefully, he can go on and make Sunday his most impactful display yet.
In other news, Callum McGregor explains the vital message he’ll give Celtic players before Glasgow derby