Celtic’s Champions League dreams just hit a massive roadblock. As they prepare to take on German powerhouse Bayern Munich in the first leg of their crucial playoff on Wednesday, the Scottish champions will have to do so without one of their most dangerous weapons—Daizen Maeda.
The Missing Piece: Maeda’s Absence Looms Large
Maeda, who has been in red-hot form this season, is suspended for the first leg, serving the final match of his ban. With 21 goals in 34 appearances across all competitions and a hat-trick in the Scottish Cup just last weekend, his presence will be sorely missed.
Even Celtic defender Alistair Johnston couldn’t hide his admiration for the Japanese forward. Speaking to Celtic TV, Johnston heaped praise on Maeda’s recent performances, suggesting he might be one of the most in-form players in Europe right now.
“I’m not sure what his stats are, but he’s got to be one of the most in-form players in all of Europe right now, and he can’t seem to miss.”
But Johnston emphasized that it’s not just the goals that make Maeda such a crucial part of Celtic’s system—it’s his relentless pressing and work ethic.
“Everyone knows his work rate is unbelievable. He’s a nightmare as a fullback to go up against, and I get the joy of having him running after me throughout the week most of the time.”
A Tactical Headache for Celtic
Going up against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena is already a near-impossible challenge, but doing so without a player who thrives on high-intensity pressing and creating chaos in the opposition’s defense puts even more pressure on the Hoops.
Celtic will need a flawless defensive display and a touch of magic up front to avoid heading into the second leg with an insurmountable deficit. Maeda, however, will return for the second leg, potentially giving Bayern something completely different to worry about if he starts.
For now, Celtic must find a way to survive without their star man—and against a team like Bayern, that is easier said than done.