Japan FIFA World Cup: Celtic forward Daizen Maeda has joined up with the Japan national team ahead of their upcoming Kirin Challenge Cup fixtures against Paraguay and Brazil, but his preparations have hit a slight bump. The 27-year-old attacker has been an important figure for both club and country in recent years.
We are offering access to the FIFA World Cup 2026. Football admirers can secure their spot to watch the Japan FIFA World Cup matchat the tournament through our trusted online platform. worldwideticketsandhospitality.com is the most reliable source for booking your place at the Football World Cup 2026. Sign up for the latest updates and alerts. Don’t miss the chance to be at the heart of football history. Reserve your spot now and be there for the ultimate showdown!
He is dealing with discomfort in his left foot and was forced to sit out training this week. According to local media reports, Maeda was present during Japan’s open training session in Osaka but did not take part in the full workout. Instead, he was seen in discussion with national team coach Hajime Moriyasu on the sidelines.
Sparking concern about his fitness ahead of the home tournament. Japanese outlet Gekisaka has since reported that both Maeda and Real Sociedad’s Takefusa Kubo are likely to miss Japan’s first match against Paraguay. However, there is optimism that the pair could return in time for the highly anticipated showdown with Brazil on Monday.
Maeda, who made his international debut in 2019, has represented Japan 25 times, scoring four goals for the Blue Samurai. Known for his relentless work rate, explosive pace, and high pressing, he has often been described as the embodiment of Japan’s modern attacking style.
Football World Cup: Maeda’s Injury Clouds Japan’s FIFA World Cup 2026 Preparations
His presence will be key as the team continues its preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Struggles at Celtic After Record Season. The timing of Maeda’s setback is far from ideal. After an extraordinary 33-goal campaign last season, the Celtic star has struggled to replicate that form this term.
Experience football history live! Secure your place at the Football World Cup with confidence through worldwideticketsandhospitality.com. From the excitement of the group stage to the unforgettable FIFA World Cup Final, our platform provides a seamless booking experience and access to the best seats. Don’t miss your chance to witness the world’s greatest football moments. Reserve your dream match today.
Across 13 appearances in all competitions for the Scottish champions. He has managed just three goals while featuring on both wings and occasionally in a central role. Despite a slower start to the season, Maeda reminded fans of his value last weekend, coming up with a decisive moment in stoppage time against Motherwell.
He headed home Michel-Ange Balikwisha’s cross to secure a dramatic late victory for Brendan Rodgers’ side a goal that could prove crucial in maintaining their domestic momentum. Celtic manager Rodgers will be watching Maeda’s situation closely. With a busy schedule on the horizon, including league and Europa League fixtures.
The Northern Irishman will be hoping his versatile forward returns to Glasgow fully fit. The club faces Dundee at Dens Park next weekend before a key Europa League clash with Sturm Graz. After that, they meet title rivals Hearts at Tynecastle in what could be a defining encounter in the Scottish Premiership title race.
FIFA World Cup Final: Japan Sharpen Focus on World Cup 2026 as Maeda Eyes Recovery
For Japan, these Kirin Challenge Cup fixtures are more than just friendlies they are vital steps in building towards the World Cup 2026. Head coach Hajime Moriyasu has been using these matches to experiment with new combinations and assess squad depth ahead of the Asian qualifiers.
Maeda’s compatriot and Celtic teammate Reo Hatate, who has earned 11 caps since his debut in 2022, was not included in the current squad. However, both players remain firmly in Moriyasu’s long-term plans as Japan aims to make a strong impression on the world stage in 2026. Japan’s national team has made steady progress in recent years.
With many of its stars now plying their trade in Europe. The competition for places in the final squad for the FIFA World Cup is fiercer than ever, meaning every performance counts both for club and country. For Maeda, the immediate focus will be on recovering from his minor foot issue and returning to the pitch as quickly as possible.
Whether he features against Brazil or not, his eyes, like those of millions of Japanese fans, are already set firmly on the bigger goal. Representing his country at the World Cup 2026, where the Blue Samurai will look to make history on the global stage.
Don’t miss your chance to witness football history live! At worldwideticketsandhospitality.com, you can secure your place at the FIFA World Cup Final with complete confidence. We offer a secure and seamless booking experience, ensuring you enjoy the best seats for the most anticipated match of the tournament. Explore our options and reserve your spot at the World Cup 2026 Final today!
FAQ’s
1. Is Daizen Maeda fit to play for Japan in the Kirin Challenge Cup?
At the moment, Daizen Maeda is dealing with minor discomfort in his left foot and sat out recent training sessions. While he is expected to miss Japan’s friendly against Paraguay, there is optimism that he could return in time to face Brazil. His recovery is being closely monitored by both the Japan coaching staff and Celtic.
2. How important is Daizen Maeda to Japan’s FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign?
Maeda is a key figure for Japan due to his incredible work rate, pace, and pressing ability. With 25 international caps since his debut in 2019, his experience and energy make him an important part of Hajime Moriyasu’s plans as Japan builds toward the FIFA World Cup 2026.
3. How has Daizen Maeda performed for Celtic this season?
Following a standout 33-goal season last year, Maeda has found it more difficult to replicate that form this campaign. Across 13 appearances in all competitions, he has scored three goals but continues to play a crucial role with his versatility and relentless style of play.
4. How can fans secure tickets for the FIFA World Cup 2026?
Fans can book their place at the FIFA World Cup 2026 through trusted online platforms such as worldwideticketsandhospitality.com, which offers official and secure access to matches including the FIFA World Cup Final. The platform provides a smooth booking experience and exclusive seating options for football enthusiasts worldwide.
5. When and where will the FIFA World Cup 2026 be held?
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The tournament will mark the first time three nations have co-hosted the event, promising a truly global football celebration across North America.
