Daizen Maeda is unquestionably the quickest player in Scotland as the Celtic wide man continues to torment backlines in the Scottish Premiership. But how often has the Japanese forward been flagged offside since arriving at Paradise in 2021?
Far too many times for the Celtic faithful to recall. However, that could soon be set to shift for Maeda after Arsene Wenger’s proposal to amend the offside law was given the green light for testing by IFAB this week.
This could prove transformative for the Celtic winger and should help Maeda add to his goal tally as we break down how the updated offside adjustments could significantly impact the Hoops attacker.
IFAB offside ‘daylight rule’ trial explained and how it can benefit Celtic:
At present, Celtic players can be penalised for offside if even a toe or shoulder is marginally beyond the defender or the last opposing player in the defensive line.
Under Wenger’s rule, an attacker is ONSIDE as long as any part of their body that can score a goal is level with the defender.
To be judged offside, there must be a noticeable separation, or clear daylight, between the attacker and the defender for any goal or move to be ruled out as unlawful.
The trial kicks off in the Canadian Premier League in April, and with the SFA being a member of IFAB, they will receive immediate access to the findings. If it’s considered successful, Celtic supporters could witness a worldwide implementation as soon as the 2027/28 campaign.
Why Daizen Maeda will love Arsene Wenger’s new rule and how it may not benefit Celtic
Maeda’s blistering speed at Celtic has given the Hoops’ rivals serious problems both domestically and in European competition against some of the continent’s elite sides.
This newly suggested rule tweak will be welcome news for him, as Maeda would hold a major edge over defenders, allowing the Celtic attacker to steal a march on his markers.
That said, even if the rule change is ratified, Celtic supporters might not reap the rewards if reports of Maeda departing the Hoops this summer materialise.
Still, should he remain, Maeda could wreak havoc across Scotland and Europe for Celtic if the trial is officially adopted.