Maeda injury casts shadow over Celtic's Old Firm preparations

Key facts

• Daizen Maeda scored the opener in Celtic's 2-1 win over 10-man Hibernian at Easter Road.
• Maeda limped off after an innocuous challenge in stoppage time and was seen without a boot after the match.
• The Japan international has six goal involvements in his last three games.
• Celtic face Rangers on Sunday, live on Sky Sports Main Event.
• Manager Martin O'Neill said he 'desperately hoped' Maeda would be fit for the Old Firm derby.
• Former Celtic winger Aiden McGeady called Maeda 'the most important player over the last three games.'

Lede: Maeda's fitness in doubt after Hibs win

Celtic forward Daizen Maeda limped off after scoring in a 2-1 victory over 10-man Hibernian at Easter Road, casting doubt over his availability for Sunday's Old Firm derby against Rangers. The Japan international, who has been in scintillating form with six goal involvements in his last three appearances, was seen without a boot after the full-time whistle following an innocuous challenge in stoppage time. Manager Martin O'Neill said he 'desperately hoped' Maeda would recover in time for the clash that could decide the top of the Scottish Premiership table.

Maeda's recent resurgence

Prior to last month, Maeda had scored only once in 2026, but he has since rediscovered his best form at a crucial juncture of the season. His goal against Hibs was his fourth in three games, and he has added two assists in that span, making him Celtic's most productive attacker. O'Neill has preferred Maeda as a central striker in recent weeks, a role in which his pace and pressing have unsettled defences.

The Old Firm stakes

Celtic's next fixture is against Rangers on Sunday, broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event. Should Rangers beat Hearts on Monday, the Old Firm match will determine which side sits atop the Scottish Premiership. A Maeda absence would be a major blow for the Hoops, as his recent contributions have been pivotal. Former Celtic winger Aiden McGeady stressed Maeda's importance: 'He's been the most important player over the last three games. Hopefully he is fine because it was an innocuous challenge. It looked more of an impact challenge.'

Club events and season ticket news

Off the pitch, Celtic have opened the season ticket renewal window with the tagline 'Paradise on your Mind.' The club also held its Player of the Year event, a night of celebrations for the squad's achievements. Meanwhile, striker Kelechi Iheanacho commented, 'I'm always happy to help the team win,' and O'Neill described the Easter Road victory as 'a big result for us.' These developments underscore the club's focus on both short-term success and long-term fan engagement.

Celtic's storied history

Founded in 1887, Celtic are one of the two dominant forces in Scottish football alongside Rangers. The club has won the Scottish league championship 55 times, the Scottish Cup 42 times, and the Scottish League Cup 22 times. In 1967, Celtic became the first British team to win the European Cup, a feat that remains a cornerstone of their identity. They are one of only five clubs worldwide to have won over 100 trophies, a testament to their enduring success.

Outlook: Maeda's fitness and the title race

The immediate question is whether Maeda will be fit for Sunday. O'Neill's 'desperate hope' suggests the medical team is working around the clock. If Maeda is ruled out, Celtic will have to adjust their attack, potentially relying on other forwards to step up. The Old Firm derby carries immense weight in the title race, and Maeda's availability could be the deciding factor. McGeady's assessment that Maeda has been the most important player in recent games highlights the stakes.

The bottom line

• Daizen Maeda's fitness is uncertain after limping off in Celtic's 2-1 win over Hibernian.
• Maeda has six goal involvements in his last three games, making him Celtic's key attacker.
• Sunday's Old Firm match against Rangers could decide the Scottish Premiership lead.
• Manager Martin O'Neill and former player Aiden McGeady have emphasized Maeda's importance.
• Celtic have opened season ticket renewals and held their Player of the Year event amid the on-field drama.
• Celtic's 55 league titles and 1967 European Cup win underscore their historic stature.