The value of Arne Engels, Daizen Maeda, and Callum McGregor to Celtic is undeniable, but their worth extends far beyond statistics. These players are integral to the club's success and future prospects, each bringing unique skills and contributions that shape Celtic's identity on the pitch.
Arne Engels: The Emerging Midfield Threat
Engels, a 22-year-old Belgian midfielder, arrived in the summer of 2024, aiming to fill the void left by Matt O'Riley's departure. While his goal-scoring prowess might not match O'Riley's early Celtic days, Engels is a work in progress. His two goals in the 2024-25 season, including crucial strikes in trophy-winning matches, showcase his potential as a regular goal-scorer from midfield. Engels' ability to contribute both offensively and defensively is a rare find, and his eight assists last season further highlight his impact.
What's truly fascinating is his adaptability. Engels' talent and potential for growth make him a player who can evolve into a more complete midfielder. His ability to close down play and contribute to Celtic's success in midfield is a testament to his versatility.
Daizen Maeda: The Versatile Attacking Maestro
Maeda, a forward with a knack for finding the back of the net, has been a consistent goal-scorer since joining Celtic. His 33 goals in 51 appearances in the 2024-25 season are a testament to his peak form. However, it's his versatility that truly sets him apart. Maeda can play on the wings and through the middle, providing Celtic with a dynamic attacking option. His 38 assists and 10 pieces of silverware, including five league titles, showcase his ability to create and score goals.
Maeda's World Cup experience with Japan adds a layer of maturity and international exposure to his resume. While his contract situation is a concern, with only one year left, Celtic has the opportunity to capitalize on his potential for growth.
Callum McGregor: The Heart and Soul of Celtic
McGregor, a 33-year-old midfielder, is the heartbeat of Celtic. His leadership and experience are invaluable, especially in the twilight of his career. With 26 honours and 11 league wins, McGregor has been a cornerstone of Celtic's success. His 77 goals and 84 assists since his breakthrough in 2014 showcase his all-around impact.
What makes McGregor truly special is his loyalty. He gave up his international career to focus on Celtic, demonstrating his commitment to the club's success. However, his age and the need for continued success at Celtic raise questions about his future.
The Future of Celtic's Midfield and Attack
The potential loss of Engels and McGregor in midfield and Maeda in attack presents a significant challenge. Celtic's ability to replace these players will be crucial to their success. The club's strategy to 'augment the squad' under O'Neill hints at a proactive approach to addressing these concerns.
As Celtic prepares for the new season, the focus on developing and retaining these key players is essential. The club's future success hinges on the continued growth and development of Engels, the versatility of Maeda, and the leadership of McGregor. The challenge now is to ensure that Celtic's success story continues with these integral players at the helm.
