Shin Yamada Joins OH Leuven on Loan from Celtic

Background and Move

The 26‑year‑old Japanese striker signed for Belgian side OH Leuven after leaving Celtic. The transfer is understood to be a loan deal, giving the club a fresh option up front. Yamada arrived at Celtic in the 2025 window from Kawasaki in the J League. During the 2024 season he netted an impressive 22 goals in 57 appearances for the Scottish side, prompting the move north of the border.

Struggles at Celtic

Before his Celtic stint, Yamada had only managed four goals in 22 games with Kawasaki. Upon joining the Bhoys he faced a difficult run, scoring no goals in 11 league matches. The lack of goals led Celtic to loan him out in January, seeking to find a better fit for their attack.

Loan Spell in Germany

In January, Yamada headed to Germany for a stint with Preussen Münster in the 2. Bundesliga. Over the course of the season he featured in 10 games and found the net three times. The German experience was another chapter in his quest to rediscover form after a quiet spell at Celtic.

What Lies Ahead for OH Leuven

OH Leuven have been searching for a reliable goalscorer to address a long‑standing weakness up front. The club’s management hopes Yamada’s proven track record in 2024 will translate into renewed firepower for the Belgian top flight. With a loan arrangement, the player can also aim to impress for a possible permanent move later. Fans are watching closely to see if his latest stint can reignite his career and lift Leuven’s attacking prospects.

• Age: 26
• Celtic debut season (2024): 22 goals in 57 games
• Celtic first‑team appearances: 11 games, 0 goals
• Loan to Preussen Münster: 10 games, 3 goals
• Previous J League stint: 4 goals in 22 games with Kawasaki

Source: GBeNeFN | Ben Jackson