James Forrest, the veteran winger who has become synonymous with Celtic Football Club, has officially secured a fresh contract that will keep him at the Parkhead side for the upcoming campaign. The 34‑year‑old, who already holds the distinction of being the most decorated player in the club's modern era, signed a one‑year extension that will see him continue to wear the green and white hoops for at least another season. Forrest's trophy cabinet is overflowing: he has amassed a total of 26 major honours during his time with Celtic, a tally that includes an astonishing 13 Scottish Premiership titles, seven Scottish Cups and six League Cups. Those figures underline a career that has been defined by consistency, resilience and an uncanny knack for delivering when it matters most.
In terms of personal statistics, the winger has found the net 110 times across 564 appearances, a goal every five games on average, and remarkably, he has scored in each of the 17 seasons he has been part of the first‑team squad. In a candid interview posted on Celtic's official website, Forrest expressed his delight at the new deal. "I’m absolutely delighted," he said.
"I’ve been here my whole career and I’ve loved every minute of it. We’ve been so successful in my time here and I’m thrilled to have signed another year. I’ll give my best to the club for however long I’m here.
While I’m still playing I hope to keep contributing and helping the team whenever I can, and I’ll give everything until I finish. When I do stop, I’ll look back on countless great memories, but I hope to add a few more before I hang up my boots." Manager Martin O'Neill was equally enthusiastic about retaining the club legend. "I really want James to finish his career here at Celtic, and I didn’t want him to go elsewhere – I think he felt the same," O'Neill explained. "The key question with any extension is whether the player still adds value, and James has proved this season that he absolutely does.
He’s changed games, performed brilliantly off the bench, and earned this contract on merit alone. Sentiment aside, he’s earned it." O'Neill also reflected on Forrest's journey from a youthful prospect in the reserves to a cornerstone of the senior side.
"He’s been immense for the club since Neil Lennon brought him in as a youngster. I love players who can take on opponents, and even at his age his burst of pace is worth its weight in gold," the manager added. Celtic captain Callum McGregor echoed these sentiments, highlighting the veteran's importance beyond the numbers. "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." McGregor went on to discuss the harsh realities of professional football, where sentiment rarely influences decisions. "There’s little room for sentiment in this business.
If you’re not needed, you’re out the door. The fact that James remains essential shows just how important he is," he noted. "Staying at a big club for so many years proves you’re doing something right. Each season brings new challenges, and James has adapted brilliantly throughout his career, showing different facets of his game to stay relevant." The winger’s influence extends beyond the pitch.
Teammates and staff describe him as a consummate professional who lives and breathes Celtic. "He always puts the club’s best interests at heart," McGregor added. "Having players like James, who are total professionals and embody the spirit of the club, is crucial for maintaining the right direction and culture." Forrest’s contract renewal is more than a simple administrative move; it represents continuity for a squad that has enjoyed unprecedented dominance in Scottish football.
His experience offers a steadying influence for younger players breaking into the first team, while his on‑field contributions—whether as a starter or an impact substitute—continue to provide tactical flexibility for O'Neill’s side. Looking ahead, Celtic will aim to add further silverware to an already impressive collection. With Forrest’s leadership and the depth he adds to the squad, the club hopes to maintain its grip on the Premiership title and make deeper runs in European competitions. Fans, too, will relish the chance to see one of their modern icons continue to grace the Celtic Park terraces, delivering the trademark pace, crossing ability, and work ethic that have defined his career.
In summary, James Forrest’s new one‑year deal cements his status as a Celtic stalwart. His record of 26 major trophies, 110 goals, and a goal in every season he has played underscores a legacy that is both prolific and enduring.
As he prepares for what could be his final season in the green and white, both manager and captain have made it clear that his presence remains vital to the club’s ambitions, both on and off the field.