It is easy to focus on what a player can do on the ball, but Celtic’s system has never been built around that alone.
Scott Allan has sparked a debate around Amar Fatah being good enough to play for Celtic so 67 Hail Hail decided to do a deep dive into this.
Allan’s claim has added fuel to a familiar Celtic discussion, one that centres on technical ability and what stands out in isolation.
There is no doubt that Amar Fatah has caught the eye, especially in Celtic’s defeat at Tannadice where difficult conditions meant control and dribbling became more noticeable.
However, Daizen Maeda, by contrast, operates in a role that often goes under the radar, even though it is central to how Celtic function as a team.
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Celtic’s system is built around Daizen Maeda
Maeda is not having his best season at Celtic but it is undeniable that the team is weaker without the Japanese forward.
But is Dundee United’s Fatah a better option than the Celtic speed king?
Allan told Superscoreboard, “I think Fatah would have got in Celtic’s team yesterday. He’s been a standout for Dundee United, at least on a pitch that was really poor.
“He was one that showed that he could still dribble and had technical ability to go by someone. I know the pressure’s different.”
That observation highlights what Fatah does well, but it does not fully account for what Celtic demand from their wide players.
Maeda’s pressing and attacking profile reflects a player who is constantly involved without needing to dominate the ball.
His value comes from intensity, movement, and his ability to force mistakes high up the pitch, which is a core part of how Celtic control games.
That contribution is less visible, but it is repeatable across matches and essential to maintaining tempo.
Celtic’s wide roles are defined by function, not flair
Fatah’s dribbling and attacking output shows a player comfortable taking on defenders and progressing the ball in tight spaces.
That is a clear strength, and it explains why he stood out even when conditions made passing football difficult.
However, Celtic’s system does not prioritise individual dribbling in wide areas if it comes at the expense of structure.
Maeda’s role is built on consistency, pressing triggers, and positional discipline, all of which are essential over the course of a full season.
Comparing the two as direct alternatives ignores that one is operating within a clearly defined tactical framework while the other is being judged on standout moments.
| Attribute | Amar Fatah | Daizen Maeda |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Strength | Dribbling and ball carrying | Pressing and off-ball movement |
| Playing Style | Direct, takes on defenders | High intensity, system-driven |
| On-Ball Impact | Frequent dribbles and progressive carries | Limited dribbling, quick transitions |
| Off-Ball Contribution | Less central to role | Key part of pressing structure |
| System Fit at Celtic | Unproven within structured pressing system | Established and consistent fit |
The difference is not about ability, it is about suitability to what Celtic require on a weekly basis.
Fatah may offer qualities that are visually appealing, but Maeda delivers what the system demands every time he steps onto the pitch.
That is why the comparison does not hold up under closer examination.
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