Overview
- Japan were eliminated after a 2-1 defeat to Brazil and Daizen Maeda drew wide praise from Japanese media for his attacking work and relentless pressing.
- Former Celtic manager and TV pundit Ange Postecoglou called Maeda's pressing 'world class' and Football Channel gave him a strong rating for his showing against Brazil.
- Maeda scored the opener in Japan's final group game against Sweden and said he will return to Celtic 'with his head held high' while apologising for the defeat.
- Maeda is entering the final year of his Celtic contract and multiple reports say the club will not block a sale this summer to avoid losing him for free next season.
- Celtic have confirmed Martin O'Neill as manager for 2026-27 and the club hopes Maeda's World Cup exposure will attract interest and increase his transfer value.