Hayato Inamura selects Shunsuke Nakamura’s Celtic number 25 | OneFootball

Hayato Inamura is hoping to follow in the footsteps of past Japanese stars at Celtic as he becomes the club’s fifth signing of the summer…

Hayato Inamura joins Celtic. Photo Celtic FC

Brendan Rodgers has added the former Albirex Niigata defender to his squad, joining recent arrivals Kieran Tierney, Ross Doohan, Callum Osmand, and Benjamin Nygren at the Scottish champions.

The left-footed centre-back signed with Niigata just last summer, but has made the switch from Japan to Scotland, agreeing to a four-year contract.

Celtic have found notable success in the Japanese market, especially under Ange Postecoglou’s stewardship, highlighted by the outstanding impact of Kyogo and current Hoops duo Daizen Maeda and Reo Hatate.

Shunsuke Nakamura, Celtic. Photo: imago/AFLOSPORT

Inamura has chosen the number 25 jersey, a number made iconic by Shunsuke Nakamura – a player he admired and often tried to emulate growing up as an aspiring footballer.

Speaking to the official Celtic website, Inamura said: “Many Japanese players have had success at this club. Across the world, this is a massive club and is really well known. I am truly excited to be joining Celtic. It’s a huge opportunity for me.”

“So far, even the current Japanese players have been performing at a high level. I think that is why there are expectations on Japanese players. I really want to live up to those expectations and do my best.”

“The reason why I chose 25 is because out of the options I was given, that one really stood out to me. Then obviously regarding Nakamura, I used to imitate his kicking style when I was a kid. He was one of my favourite players.”

New Celtic signing Hayato Inamura watches from the stand. Queen’s Park 0-1 Celtic. 4 July 2025. Photo by Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star)

Inamura watched on last night as Celtic defeated Scottish Championship side Queens Park 1-0 at the City Stadium courtesy of Johnny Kenny’s strike.

Even with several established names missing, Celtic’s starting XI still featured some notable starters, with captain Callum McGregor joined in midfield by Arne Engels and Luke McCowan.

The Hoops will now travel to face Irish Premier Division side Cork City at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh on Tuesday evening.

Conor Spence

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