Tomoki Iwata: I can't wait to experience Celtic Park as a player
Tomoki Iwata had his first experience of what his new life will be like as a Celtic player on Saturday, as the J-League Player of the Year for the 2023 season stepped out on to the Celtic Park at half-time of the 2-0 win over Kilmarnock. Joining from Yokohama F Marinos where he played alongside Daizen Maeda and was managed by Ange Postecoglou, Iwata arrives in Glasgow as a league winner this year and he canât wait to get started and win with Celtic. Speaking to Celtic TV, he said: âIâm really honoured and I'm really happy to be at a great club such as Celtic and Iâm just excited.
âI was really excited (to be on the pitch) and I felt the passion of the supporters. Compared with Japan, the supporters are very passionate and Iâm really looking forward to playing on that pitch with fans. I have been following the Celtic games, especially old highlights as well as checking the results. I was playing with Daizen at Marinos, so yeah, I was interested in the results of Celtic.â
On signing for the club, Ange Postecoglou highlighted the 25-year-oldâs ability to play in a number of positions, primarily in the middle of midfield and defence. Talking about what he can bring to the football club and how he can impact the starting XI, Iwata said: âThe team has been winning a lot of games and is in first place in the league so this is why Iâm thinking how I can contribute to the team. I think my strong point is stealing the ball and my fitness and I think once I fit into the team I can contribute to achieve more success. I think my strong point is also working hard and in terms of my playing style then dealing with balls under pressure and this is what I would like to express. I also played with the manager in Japan so I would like to show my play on the pitch and contribute to the team.â
Celtic TV - First Interview and Full Media Conference with new Bhoy Tomoki Iwata
37. SPL Spieltag
15.05.2024 20.30 Uhr DZ
Rugby Park
Kilmarnock - Celtic FC 0-5 (0-3)
15.05.2024 20.30 Uhr DZ
Rugby Park
Kilmarnock - Celtic FC 0-5 (0-3)