Fans can’t get enough of Michel-Ange Balikwisha first Celtic interview at Sky sports as he talks about playing with Daizen Maeda
Celtic’s newest signing, Michel-Ange Balikwisha, has sent fans into a frenzy with his first interview on Sky Sports, where he shared his excitement about joining the Scottish giants and his eagerness to link up with star forward Daizen Maeda.
The 24-year-old Belgian winger, who completed a £5 million move from Royal Antwerp on a five-year deal, spoke with infectious enthusiasm about his new chapter at Celtic Park, and supporters are lapping it up.
The interview, which aired shortly after his medical clearance and official announcement, has been a hot topic on social media, with fans buzzing about Balikwisha’s potential to shine alongside Maeda in Brendan Rodgers’ attacking setup.
Balikwisha’s arrival comes at a crucial time for Celtic, who are looking to bolster their attacking options following a disappointing Champions League play-off exit against Kairat Almaty.
The former Belgium U21 international brings a wealth of experience, having made 145 appearances for Antwerp, scoring 30 goals and providing 17 assists.
His versatility to play on either wing or even as a central attacking midfielder has fans dreaming of a dynamic partnership with Maeda, who has been a revelation as a makeshift striker. In the interview, Balikwisha couldn’t hide his admiration for the Japanese international, praising Maeda’s relentless energy, clinical finishing, and ability to deliver in big moments. “Daizen is a player I’ve watched closely,” Balikwisha said. “His work rate, his goals, his passion—it’s something I want to learn from and add to.
I think we can create something special together.”
The prospect of Balikwisha and Maeda combining is particularly exciting for Celtic supporters, especially after Rodgers’ tactical shift to deploy Maeda centrally following Kyogo Furuhashi’s departure.
Maeda’s 33 goals and 11 assists last season, coupled with his knack for big-game performances, have made him indispensable, and Balikwisha’s arrival is seen as a perfect complement.
The Belgian’s pace, dribbling ability, and eye for goal—evidenced by his decisive Champions League play-off strike against AEK Athens in 2023—could provide the spark Celtic need on the flanks.
Fans took to social media to express their excitement, with one supporter tweeting, “Balikwisha and Maeda tearing up defences together? I’m here for it!” Another wrote, “His Sky Sports interview got me hyped—Michel-Ange is ready to make waves!”
Balikwisha’s comments about embracing the pressure of playing for Celtic and his desire to make an immediate impact in Sunday’s Old Firm derby against Rangers have only added to the anticipation.
He spoke of the club’s passionate fanbase and the electric atmosphere at Celtic Park, which he experienced during his ‘welcome to Celtic’ interview with Celtic TV.
Despite concerns about his injury history, his successful medical and recent form, including a goal in Antwerp’s 3-1 win over Leuven, have eased doubts.
As Celtic chase a fifth consecutive league title, Balikwisha’s hunger to contribute alongside Maeda has fans believing this could be the start of something special. With the transfer window closing soon, all eyes are on how this dynamic duo will shape Celtic’s season.