Never Knew Kris Boyd Was This Afraid of Maeda 😂😂 The Man Couldn’t Hold His Excitement… “I’m Glad He’s Gone!” 😁
Daizen Maeda’s reported move from Celtic to Ipswich Town has sparked huge debate across Scottish football, but perhaps no reaction has generated as much attention as that of former Rangers striker and television pundit Kris Boyd.
As news of Maeda’s expected Premier League switch began circulating, Boyd appeared unable to hide his delight, jokingly declaring that he was “glad he’s gone.” The comments immediately sent social media into overdrive, with many Celtic supporters playfully accusing the former Rangers forward of finally admitting just how much of a nightmare the Japanese international had become for opposing teams.
Fans flooded X and Facebook with memes, laughing that Boyd looked “more relieved than excited,” while others joked that defenders across the Scottish Premiership would also be celebrating the departure of one of the league’s most relentless forwards.
Maeda built a reputation at Celtic not only for scoring crucial goals but also for his incredible work rate. His relentless pressing, blistering pace and tireless running made him one of the most difficult attackers to play against. Even when he wasn’t finding the back of the net, his ability to force mistakes and disrupt defensive lines often changed games in Celtic’s favour.
During his time in Glasgow, the Japan international played a key role in helping Celtic dominate domestic competitions, lifting multiple league titles and cup trophies. His consistency and commitment quickly made him a fan favourite, with supporters often describing him as one of the hardest-working players to wear the famous green-and-white shirt.
Boyd’s reaction, whether partly humorous or genuinely relieved, has only added fuel to the rivalry between Celtic and Rangers supporters. Many Celtic fans responded by claiming that Boyd’s comments were proof of the respect Maeda had earned from rivals.
One supporter wrote, “Imagine saying you’re glad a player has left. That’s the biggest compliment you can give him.”
Another added, “Boyd has spent years criticising Celtic players, but today he couldn’t hide how happy he was that Maeda won’t be terrorising Scottish defences anymore.”
Meanwhile, Rangers fans viewed the comments differently, arguing that Maeda’s departure is simply good news for every club in the league and that Boyd was only saying what many rival supporters were thinking.
If the move to Ipswich is officially completed, Maeda will have the opportunity to test himself in one of the world’s toughest leagues. The Premier League will present a new challenge, but his incredible stamina, pressing ability and fearless style suggest he has the attributes to succeed in English football.
For Celtic, replacing a player of Maeda’s influence will not be easy. Beyond his goals and assists, his intensity set the standard for the team’s attacking play, and supporters will hope the club reinvests wisely to maintain their dominance.
As for Kris Boyd, his reaction has become a talking point almost as big as the transfer itself. Whether fans interpret it as harmless banter or an admission of just how dangerous Maeda was, one thing is certain—the Japanese star leaves Scottish football having earned the respect of teammates, opponents and even some of his fiercest critics.
And judging by the online reactions, many supporters couldn’t resist one final joke:
“Kris Boyd looked like he’d won the lottery… that’s how relieved he was to see Daizen Maeda heading south!”
