If Shin Yamada’s departure creates the space for Celtic to sign a striker capable of making a genuine impact, then this loan move will prove to be good business. Every squad place is precious, and Celtic cannot afford to have attacking positions occupied by players who aren’t contributing. They need forwards who can score goals, create chances, lead the line and make a tangible difference from the moment they arrive.
That is why Yamada’s move to OH Leuven feels like the right decision for everyone involved.
Not every signing works out, and while the Japanese forward arrived with promise, he never looked capable of making the impact Celtic require. The statistics reflect that. He failed to register a competitive goal or assist, and despite his commitment and professionalism, he simply wasn’t able to influence matches in the way Celtic need their strikers to.
There should be no criticism of Yamada personally. His attitude was never in question, and every supporter should wish him nothing but success as he looks to rebuild his career with regular football in Belgium.
The focus now shifts firmly back to Celtic’s recruitment team.
Yamada’s exit cannot simply be about reducing the size of the squad. It has to be about improving its quality. Celtic still need more firepower, more physicality and more proven quality in the final third. Supporters aren’t asking for another project or another player who might develop over the next few years. They’re asking for a striker who can contribute immediately.
With the Premiership season approaching and European qualifiers on the horizon, there is no time to waste. Celtic need players who can deliver from day one, not months down the line.
Wish Shin Yamada every success in Belgium, but his departure has created an opportunity that Celtic simply cannot afford to waste. The space he leaves behind must be filled by a striker who brings goals, presence, quality and decisive contributions. That would turn this loan move into a positive outcome for everyone involved.
