Full Breakdown
Daizen Maeda Poised for Final Celtic Appearance in Scottish Cup Final
5/24/2026, 1:05:18 PM
Core Event: Maeda’s Likely Last Game for Celtic
Celtic will face Dunfermline Athletic in the Scottish Cup final at Hampden Park on Saturday, and manager Martin O’Neill has confirmed that Japanese forward Daizen Maeda, 28, is expected to play his final match for the club. The announcement follows weeks of speculation about Maeda’s future after his contract entered its final twelve months.
Background & Context: From Yokohama to Glasgow
Maeda arrived from Yokohama F. Marinos in January 2022 for about £1 million. In four seasons he helped Celtic win five league titles, two Scottish Cups and two League Cups. In 2025-26 he scored 17 league goals, including nine in his final seven matches, and added a key strike in the 3-1 title-sealing win over Hearts.
Key Figures & Groups
- Daizen Maeda – Japanese forward, Celtic’s top scorer this season.
- Martin O’Neill – Celtic manager, possibly departing after the final.
- Neil Lennon – Dunfermline manager, former Celtic player.
- Viljami Sinisalo – Celtic goalkeeper, praised O’Neill’s impact.
Data & Statistics
- 33 goals in 86 Celtic appearances.
- 17 league goals in 2025-26, nine in his last seven games.
- Nine honours: five league titles, two Scottish Cups, two League Cups.
- Premier League interest following his recent form.
Official Statements & Responses
Martin O’Neill confirmed that Maeda has communicated his ambition to join the Premier League and that the club will not obstruct a move. O’Neill also praised Maeda’s recent performances, describing them as comparable to Celtic legend Henrik Larsson. Dunfermline manager Neil Lennon acknowledged Celtic’s quality but cautioned that they are “not a super team.”
Criticism & Opposition
Lennon’s assessment suggests that Celtic’s dominance may be challenged, highlighting the competitive nature of the final. No public criticism of O’Neill’s handling of Maeda’s situation appears in the sources.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The Irishman, speaking to the Scottish Sun, added: “Daizen’s last seven weeks have been absolutely Larssonesque.” — Martin O’Neill
- “There will be a queue of clubs down there wanting him now after this recent spell.” — Martin O’Neill
- “are a very good team, but they're not a super team” — Neil Lennon
- “(Scotsman - subscription required), external Goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo says Celtic are "all so thankful" for manager Martin O'Neill's impact at the club this season.” — Viljami Sinisalo
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the exact timing of Maeda’s departure: some state he will leave in the summer of 2026, while others suggest a possible move this summer. Details of the blocked Wolfsburg transfer also vary, with no official confirmation of the fee.
What’s Next
If Celtic win, the club will secure a domestic double; Maeda could then join a Premier League side in the upcoming transfer window. O’Neill’s future remains uncertain, with speculation that the cup final may be his last match in charge.
