If Robbie Keane becomes Celtic’s next manager, the Celtic trio, including Maeda, is expected to leave.

Three Celtic Players Who Could Struggle Under Robbie Keane

Celtic F.C. have been strongly linked with Robbie Keane as a potential candidate to take the managerial position at Celtic Park on a permanent basis this summer. As the Scottish champions look to begin a new chapter, discussions about how the squad could change under a new manager have already started.

If Keane were to take charge, several current first-team players might find themselves uncertain about their futures. According to analysis from 67 Hail Hail, three experienced members of the squad could face particularly difficult situations should the Irish coach arrive in Glasgow.

Among those who may be most affected are Michel-Ange Balikwisha, Anthony Ralston and Daizen Maeda. Each of these players may need to reconsider their long-term prospects with Celtic as the club prepares for a possible transformation.

Daizen Maeda Facing an Uncertain Future

Maeda’s position at Celtic has become increasingly uncertain following a difficult season compared to the previous campaign. The Japanese forward was one of the club’s standout performers not long ago, collecting multiple individual accolades during an impressive season.

However, his form this year has failed to reach the same levels. His influence in matches has noticeably declined, leading to questions about whether he can rediscover his best performances.

In fact, Maeda admitted during an interview last September that he had reached a personal agreement to leave Celtic. Despite the player settling terms for a move away, the club ultimately prevented the transfer from going through at the final stage.

Since then, the attacker has struggled to replicate the impact that once made him such a vital figure within the team. With Celtic now potentially preparing for a fresh tactical direction, the club’s hierarchy could revisit the idea of allowing him to depart.

Daizen Maeda

If Keane becomes manager, circumstances may push the club toward finally approving Maeda’s exit. A transfer during the summer window might prove beneficial for both the player and the club, particularly as Celtic attempt to refresh a squad that some believe is beginning to lose momentum.

Anthony Ralston’s Position Under Threat

Another player whose future may come under scrutiny is right-back Anthony Ralston. The defender remains a popular personality among supporters, thanks to his commitment and strong connection to the club.

However, the competition for places in Celtic’s defence has intensified in recent times. Alistair Johnston currently holds the position as the team’s first-choice right-back, leaving Ralston with fewer opportunities to feature regularly.

In addition to Johnston’s presence, the emergence of promising youngster Colby Donovan has further complicated the situation. The young defender’s progress has reduced the number of minutes available for Ralston even more.

Supporters have also been eager for the club to secure a permanent transfer for Julián Araujo, whose performances have impressed since arriving. If Celtic succeed in keeping Araujo, the depth at right-back would increase further, making it even harder for Ralston to secure playing time.

Given these circumstances, Ralston may find it increasingly difficult to remain a regular contributor in the squad. Although he recently received another call-up to the Scotland national football team from manager Steve Clarke and could feature in the upcoming World Cup, his club prospects appear less certain.

A move away from Celtic could therefore offer him a better opportunity to play consistently elsewhere.

Michel-Ange Balikwisha Struggling to Deliver

The third player who may face an uncertain future is winger Michel-Ange Balikwisha. The Belgian joined Celtic from Royal Antwerp F.C. during the summer transfer window in a deal worth approximately £5 million.

Expectations were high when he arrived, but his performances have not matched those hopes. After making nineteen appearances for the club, Balikwisha has yet to score his first goal in a Celtic shirt.

His struggles have raised concerns about whether the recruitment decision has proven successful. Some observers believe his signing highlights issues within the club’s transfer strategy.

If Keane were to become Celtic’s manager, Balikwisha’s situation could become even more challenging. The coach currently employs an energetic and demanding tactical approach with Ferencvárosi TC, relying heavily on wingers who can deliver consistent productivity in both attacking and defensive phases.

One example is Elton Acolatse, who has quickly thrived within Keane’s system following his move to Hungary earlier this year. His ability to perform at a high intensity has made him an important component of the team’s strategy.

Balikwisha, however, has not demonstrated the same level of effectiveness since arriving in Glasgow. The Belgian has struggled to establish himself in the lineup and has already been sidelined by more than one manager during the current season.

Because of this, many observers now view him as a signing that has failed to deliver the expected impact.

Potential Squad Changes Ahead

If Keane were appointed as Celtic’s next permanent manager, the club could undergo significant changes as it attempts to build a team capable of thriving under his demanding style of play.

Players who do not fit that approach may find themselves moved on to create space for new signings better suited to the system.

For Balikwisha in particular, a departure could allow Celtic’s board to redirect resources toward players whose attributes match the tactical requirements of the new regime.

As the club prepares for a possible new era, the futures of Maeda, Ralston and Balikwisha may ultimately depend on whether Keane becomes the man tasked with guiding Celtic into that next chapter.