Daizen Maeda’s heartfelt message following Japan’s World Cup exit has become one of the tournament’s biggest social media moments, attracting more than 550,000 likes on X.
The Celtic forward shared his thoughts after Japan’s heartbreaking elimination at the hands of Brazil, with supporters responding in huge numbers to thank him for his commitment throughout the competition.
期待に応えられず、本当に申し訳ありません。
ただ、カタールW杯からのこの3年半、選手、スタッフ、家族、そしてファン・サポーターの皆さんとともにここ積み上げてきたものは、僕の誇りです。
本当にたくさんの応援、ありがとうございました。@jfa_samuraiblue #FIFAWorldCup2026 pic.twitter.com/1GqwigZ3uM— 前田 大然 Daizen Maeda (@M_daizen_1020) June 30, 2026
Maeda wrote: “I’m truly sorry for not meeting your expectations.
“However, over these past three and a half years since the Qatar World Cup, everything we’ve built together with the players, staff, families, and all the fans and supporters is my pride.
“Thank you so much for all the support.”
The post has received an overwhelmingly positive response from Japanese fans, who have praised Maeda’s work ethic and dedication despite the disappointment of the result.
Its popularity has even eclipsed posts from several of football’s biggest names, with the message attracting more likes than any tournament-related tweet from Neymar, Kylian Mbappe or Erling Haaland.
Maeda’s impact has not been limited to social media. According to FIFA’s physical performance data, the 28-year-old has recorded more sprints than any other player at the tournament, underlining the relentless work rate that has become his trademark.
Former Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou also highlighted those qualities while working as a television pundit during the competition, describing Maeda’s athleticism as “world-class”.
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