James Forrest, the veteran winger who has become synonymous with Celtic’s modern era, has confirmed that he will remain at the club for another season by signing a fresh one‑year contract. The 34‑year‑old, who already holds the distinction of being the most decorated player in the club’s history, will add another year to his tenure with the Scottish Premiership champions, extending a partnership that has spanned nearly two decades. Forrest’s trophy cabinet is unrivalled at Celtic. Over the course of 17 full seasons he has collected 26 major honours, a haul that includes 13 league titles, seven Scottish Cups and six League Cups.
His goal‑scoring record is equally impressive: 110 goals in 564 appearances, and remarkably, he has found the net in every single season he has worn the green and white hoops. Such consistency has made him a fixture in the club’s folklore and a benchmark for future generations.
In a heartfelt interview posted on Celtic’s official website, Forrest expressed his enthusiasm about the new deal. “I’m absolutely delighted,” he said.
“I’ve spent my entire professional career here and I’ve loved every minute of it. We have achieved so much success during my time, and I’m thrilled to have signed on for another year. I’ll continue to give my best to the club for as long as I’m able.” He went on to reflect on the longevity of his career, noting, “While I’m still playing I hope to keep contributing and helping the team whenever I can.
I’ll give everything until the day I hang up my boots. When that moment finally arrives, I’ll look back on a flood of great memories, and I hope to add a few more before I call time on my playing days.” Manager Martin O’Neill echoed the sentiment, emphasizing how much the club values Forrest’s presence. “I really want James to finish his career here at Celtic. I didn’t want him to go anywhere else, and I think he feels the same,” O’Neill explained.
“The key question when you consider extending a contract is whether the player still adds value. James has proved this season that he is still worth that extra year. He has the ability to change games, and his recent performances off the bench have been outstanding. It’s not just sentiment; he has earned this extension.” O’Neill also highlighted Forrest’s origins at the club, recalling that he was brought in by former manager Neil Lennon as a young reserve player.
“He’s what I love – a player who can take on opponents, even at his age his burst of pace is worth its weight in gold.” Celtic captain Callum McGregor added his own endorsement, describing Forrest as an indispensable figure within the squad. “Massively deserved,” McGregor said. “James has been at the club for a long, long time.
He knows the fabric of Celtic, how it operates, and what it takes to be successful here. He’s won countless trophies and brings huge experience. When you need someone, he’s always there.
That kind of reliability is invaluable.” He continued, “In football there’s little room for sentiment – if you’re not needed, you’re out. The fact that James is still essential shows how important he is. To stay at a club like Celtic for so many years means you’re doing something right.” The statements from both the manager and the captain underline a broader theme: Forrest’s longevity is not merely a product of nostalgia but a testament to his adaptability and professionalism.
Over 17 seasons, the game has evolved, tactics have shifted, and new talents have emerged. Yet Forrest has consistently reinvented himself, adjusting his style to remain a mainstay in the squad.
Whether playing as a wide attacker, a deeper‑lying winger, or even as an impact substitute, he has demonstrated a willingness to embrace different roles for the benefit of the team. Beyond the statistics, Forrest’s influence extends to the dressing‑room and the club’s culture. Teammates describe him as a “total professional” who lives and breathes Celtic.
His commitment to the club’s values, his mentorship of younger players, and his relentless work ethic set a standard that resonates throughout the organization. For a club that prides itself on a strong identity and a connection with its supporters, having a figure like Forrest, who embodies those principles, is a strategic asset.
The new contract also reflects Celtic’s broader strategy of balancing experience with emerging talent. While the club continues to invest in youth development and scouting, retaining seasoned veterans like Forrest provides stability and a bridge between generations. Young players can look up to his career as a blueprint for how to succeed at the highest level in Scottish football, while the coaching staff benefits from his tactical awareness and on‑field intelligence.
In summary, James Forrest’s decision to stay for an eighteenth season underscores his deep-rooted bond with Celtic, his continued relevance on the pitch, and the high regard in which he is held by both management and teammates. The one‑year extension is more than a contractual formality; it is a celebration of a career built on consistency, adaptability, and an unwavering passion for the club’s colors.
As the new season approaches, fans can anticipate seeing Forrest once again contribute his experience, skill, and determination, adding yet another chapter to an already illustrious legacy at Celtic.