Shin Yamada looks set to become Celtic’s latest addition from Japan, with Kawasaki Frontale confirming the striker is leaving to complete a move abroad – and all signs point to Glasgow…
Shin Yamada Frontale, MARCH 30, 2024 – Football / Soccer : Shin Yamada of Frontale celebrates his first goal during 2024 J1 League match match between Kawasaki Frontale – FC Tokyo at Uvance Todoroki Stadium by Fujitsu, Kanagawa, Japan. Photo IMAGO
‘We hereby announce that, as of today, July 16 (Wednesday), player Shin Yamada will be leaving the team to proceed with preparations for a transfer to an overseas club. Further details will be announced once they are officially confirmed. Additionally, after the conclusion of the Emperor’s Cup 3rd Round match against SC Sagamihara today, Shin Yamada will address the supporters.’
Shin Yamada Frontale, MARCH 30, 2024 – Football / Soccer : 2024 J1 League match match between Kawasaki Frontale – FC Tokyo at Uvance Todoroki Stadium by Fujitsu, Kanagawa, Japan. Photo IMAGO
この度、山田新選手が海外クラブへの移籍を前提とした手続きのため、本日7/16（水）の活動をもってチームを離脱することになりましたので、お知らせいたします。
今後につきましては、正式に決定次第、あらためてお知らせいたします。
なお、本日開催される天皇杯3回戦…
— 川崎フロンターレ (@frontale_staff) July 16, 2025
Celtic have form here, with the Japanese market having been a good recruitment ground over the last few seasons – and if confirmed – this would be another well-scouted move from a market that’s delivered time and again for the club.
You wouldn’t think Yamada isn’t coming in as a squad filler signing either. He’s rated as one of the most clinical young forwards in the J1 League, combining pace, movement and work rate with a knack for scoring from anywhere around the box.
His form may have been patchy in front of goal this season, but he’s certainly shown there’s enough class about him to not be overly concerned about a temporary form dip, especially when there has been transfer interest in him – and we all have our own experiences at Celtic as to how that can impact players performance – Don’t we Nicolas?
What really stands out, though, is the reaction from the Frontale support. These aren’t just fans losing a player – they’re saying goodbye to someone who clearly meant something to many of the fans.
L to R Shin Yamada Frontale, Hayato Inamura Albirex, OCTOBER 13, 2024 – Football / Soccer : 2024 J. League YBC Levain Cup Semi-final 2nd Leg match between Kawasaki Frontale – Albirex Niigata at Uvance Todoroki Stadium, Kanagawa, Japan. Photo IMAGO
“That lonely single word – Leave – the unfinished tasks to the remaining members… Shine brightly, please. Come back to Frontale someday.”
“I’m sad I couldn’t help you win the top scorer title, but go get that title overseas!! Good luck!! Off you go!!”
“The rumours were true, huh. I’m sad. I’m hoping for an explosive performance at your next team! Urgently looking for Yamada Shin’s successor…”
Shin Yamada Frontale, APRIL 2, 2025 – Football / Soccer : 2025 J1 League match between Kawasaki Frontale – Shonan Bellmare at Uvance Todoroki Stadium in Kanagawa, Japan. Photo IMAGO
We know how that feels. Celtic fans have been there, saying goodbye to players who felt like one of our own. That’s what makes this a little different – because we’re not just signing a footballer. We’re getting a player who carried a support with him, and one who it seems is genuinely going to be missed by the supporters he is leaving behind.
“Even when you go overseas, keep pushing forward, my favourite Frontale player. I’m cheering for you.”
Kawasaki Frontale’s Shin Yamada during the 2025 J1 League match between Kawasaki Frontale 4-0 Nagoya Grampus at Uvance Todoroki Stadium by Fujitsu in Kanagawa, Japan, February 15, 2025. Photo IMAGO
For now, it’s about paperwork and official confirmation. But once that’s done, Celtic fans will welcome Yamada the right way – with our full backing.
If Shin Yamada’s got the heart and work rate we’ve seen from Kyogo, Maeda, and Hatate, and it seems he very much does, he’ll fit right in at Celtic. He’s leaving tears behind in Japan. Let’s hope he’s smiling in Glasgow –very soon.
Niall J
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