A report says Maeda endured a difficult first half of the season at Celtic before finishing strongly under O’Neill. Postecoglou credited the manager’s handling of the player, pointing to the confidence and clarity that appeared to return as the campaign progressed.
Maeda’s improvement was reportedly reflected in a late-season goalscoring run and his contribution to Celtic’s domestic Double. For Postecoglou, however, the most important change was not simply in front of goal. It was the forward’s renewed intensity, movement and willingness to make life uncomfortable for defenders.
With Kaoru Mitoma reportedly absent after withdrawing through injury, Japan lose one of their most dangerous wide players. Maeda offers a different solution: relentless pressing, explosive running and the physical ability to compete with defenders at the highest level.
That profile could be especially valuable against the Netherlands. Japan may not always dominate possession, but Maeda can turn defensive pressure into attacking opportunities by forcing rushed decisions and closing down passing lanes.
Postecoglou also highlighted the athleticism behind Maeda’s recent improvement, including the overhead kick he scored against Rangers. The former Celtic boss believes the forward’s energy will not be diminished by the scale of the occasion.
The question is whether Maeda can carry his club resurgence onto the World Cup stage. Japan will need more than effort against the Dutch, but his pressing could disrupt their build-up and create openings for the players around him.
The Netherlands match will provide the clearest test yet of Maeda’s revival - and of whether O’Neill’s influence can translate into an international breakthrough.