Sebastian Tounekti has highlighted Daizen Maeda as a key threat ahead of Tunisia’s clash with Japan, insisting his international teammates must be wary of the Celtic forward this weekend.
Tunisia head into the Group F encounter on the back of significant upheaval, having sacked boss Sabri Lamouchi following a heavy 5-1 defeat to Sweden in their opener.
Tounekti featured in that match alongside fellow Celtic teammate Benjamin Nygren and is now preparing for a crucial showdown against the Samurai Blue.
Speaking to Zocalo Web, Tounekti admitted Maeda’s form for Celtic has not gone unnoticed while stressing Tunisia’s need to stay focused on their own performance. He said: “To be honest, when I play matches, I don’t focus so much on other teams.
But I have one of my mates playing there, when I play for Celtic, Maeda. He’s been really good for us, so he’s a player to look for, but I think as a team we just have to focus on ourselves. It’s a big game, and we have a lot to prove to people.”
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The 23-year-old also addressed the managerial change, with Herve Renard stepping in to replace Lamouchi mid-tournament. Tounekti insisted the squad has taken the transition in their stride. He said: “It’s no problem. We are professional players. We are used to stuff like this happening.
"I also think the new coach brought new energy into the group; he brought some clarity, so I’m really looking forward to working under him, and to see what we can achieve in these last two games.”
Tounekti added that representing Tunisia on the world stage remains a huge honour, despite the early setback. He said: “I think it’s always special to play in the World Cup. To represent your country and to play this cup is amazing.
"And to be able to do that, I’m really honoured, and we have to show it on the pitch.”
