adminCeltic forward Shin Yamada has been described as a striker who “scores goals easily” by OH Leuven Sporting Director Gyorgy Csepregi, following the Japanese player’s loan move to the Belgian Pro League.
The 26-year-old has found game time hard to come by at Celtic Park since arriving from J1 League side Kawasaki Frontale last July. He has made just 12 appearances for the Hoops and is yet to register a competitive goal. In January, he was sent on loan to German second-tier outfit Preussen Munster, where he made only one start.
Now, after a season he has admitted was “difficult,” Yamada is hoping for a turnaround as he joins Leuven on a season-long loan. He did manage to open his Celtic account in a recent friendly against Shelbourne, converting a penalty to earn a 1-1 draw.
Leuven confirm loan deal for Celtic star
In an official statement, the Belgian club said: “Shin Yamada, 26, began his professional career at Kawasaki Frontale in Japan’s J1 League. During his time there, he scored 32 goals and provided 9 assists in 122 matches, while also winning the league title, the cup, and the Super Cup.
“That form earned him a move to Celtic FC. He played 11 matches for the Scottish side but failed to find the net. In the winter, he was loaned to Preussen Münster, where he rediscovered his scoring form, netting three times in ten appearances. Now, Yamada joins OH Leuven on a one-year loan deal.”
Sporting Director Csepregi added: “Shin is a Japanese international who narrowly missed out on World Cup selection. We’ve been tracking him since his time at Kawasaki, where he played alongside Ominami, but he was out of reach back then.
“He didn’t get many chances at Celtic, so when the opportunity came to bring him in, we acted quickly. Yamada is a player with strong mobility, good positioning, and a natural eye for goal. He fits the profile we were looking for perfectly.”
Yamada keen for fresh start after tough debut season
In his first interview with his new club, the striker said: “I’m really happy and excited to be here. I feel this club suits me, and I can’t wait to get started. The club presented their project to me, and I believe the playing style fits my game. I have confidence, energy, and I know I can contribute goals.
“Last season was difficult, but I gained valuable experience working with different players and managers, so I see it as a positive step. I’m looking forward to building connections with my teammates and scoring plenty of goals for Leuven. I can’t wait to show what I can do in front of the fans at the stadium.”
Celtic confirmed Yamada’s departure on X, wishing him well: “Good luck to Shin Yamada, who has joined OH Leuven on a season-long loan. All the best in Belgium, Shin!”
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