KYOGO FURUHASHI SAYS THAT ONLY ONE PERSON AT CELTIC WANTED HIM TO STAY, DESPITE BEING THEIR BEST PLAYER

KYOGO FURUHASHI SAYS THAT ONLY ONE PERSON AT CELTIC WANTED HIM TO STAY, DESPITE BEING THEIR BEST PLAYER

Kyogo Furuhashi has finally spoken about his emotional departure from Celtic, offering a rare glimpse into the reality behind his shock exit earlier this year. The Japanese striker, who lit up Scottish football with his energy and precision, admits leaving Glasgow was one of the hardest decisions of his career but says the response from inside the club surprised him most.

After nearly four trophy-filled years at Parkhead, Kyogo felt it was time to seek a new challenge abroad. Yet as he packed up his locker for the final time, he was struck by how quiet things were.

“It was a very difficult moment,” Kyogo said. “I thought many people might tell me to stay or at least ask me to think again. But only one person did that. Just one. That really stayed with me.”

That person, he later revealed, was Daizen Maeda, his close friend and international teammate.

“Daizen came to me and said, ‘Kyogo, don’t go. Stay one more year,’” he explained. “It meant a lot because it showed he cared. We’ve been through so much together and he was the only one who truly tried to change my mind.”

A Journey Built on Hard Work

Furuhashi’s career began at FC Gifu in 2017 where his raw pace and finishing instinct quickly earned him a reputation in Japan’s second division. A move to Vissel Kobe followed a year later where he played alongside global icons such as Andrés Iniesta and David Villa.

Across 95 games for Kobe, he netted 42 goals, refining his movement and learning the European style of play that would later make him a star in Scotland.

In 2021, Celtic brought him to Glasgow, and what followed was pure magic. Across 116 league appearances, Kyogo scored 63 goals, becoming the face of the club’s attacking brilliance and helping deliver multiple Premiership titles and domestic cups.

“Celtic changed my life,” he said. “From the first day, I felt the energy of the fans. Every match at Celtic Park was special. You can’t describe that feeling.”

When the System Changed

By the 2024–25 season, things began to shift. Under Brendan Rodgers, Celtic’s formation evolved, and Furuhashi’s role became less central. For a striker who thrives on rhythm and instinct, the adjustment wasn’t easy.

“I always respect the manager and the team’s decisions,” he said. “But sometimes you feel your importance changing. That’s football, but it’s also a sign that maybe it’s time to move forward.”

In January 2025, Kyogo joined Rennes in France’s Ligue 1. His stay there was short, however, as he moved to Birmingham City that summer after just six appearances.

“If the Offer Was Right, I’d Come Back”

Though he is now wearing blue instead of green and white, Celtic remains close to Kyogo’s heart. When asked if he would ever consider returning to Glasgow, his response brought a smile to the interviewer’s face.

“Why not?” he said with a laugh. “Celtic will always be special for me. If one day they called and the offer was right for everyone, I’d definitely think about it. You never close the door on love.”

A New Challenge, Same Passion

Now 29, Furuhashi is adjusting to the demands of the English Championship, having made nine appearances so far for Birmingham City.

“It’s fast, physical, and different,” he admitted. “But I like challenges. I’m learning every day and giving my best for the team.”

Still, as he reflects on his time in Scotland, there is a hint of nostalgia in his voice.

“Celtic gave me memories I’ll never forget. The goals, the trophies, the fans. It will always be a part of who I am,” he said. “And who knows? Maybe one day that story isn’t finished yet.”