James Forrest, the seasoned Celtic winger, has secured a fresh agreement that will see him remain with the Glasgow giants for another season. At 34, Forrest, who already holds the distinction of being the most decorated player in the club’s modern era, added a one‑year extension to his contract with the reigning Scottish Premiership champions. Over his illustrious tenure, Forrest has amassed an impressive haul of 26 major trophies, a collection that includes 13 league crowns, seven Scottish Cups and six League Cups.
His goal‑scoring record is equally noteworthy: 110 goals in 564 appearances, and remarkably, he has found the net in every one of the 17 seasons he has spent in Celtic colours. In a candid interview posted on the club’s official website, the veteran expressed his enthusiasm about 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 achieved so much success during my time, and I’m thrilled to have signed on for another year.
I’ll continue to give my all for the club for as long as I’m able." Forrest added that he intends to keep contributing on the pitch for as long as his body allows. "While I’m still playing, I hope to keep adding value and helping the team wherever I can," he explained.
"I’ll give everything until the day I hang up my boots. When that day comes, I’ll look back on countless great memories, and I hope to create a few more before I finally retire." Manager Martin O’Neill praised the decision, emphasizing the mutual desire for Forrest to finish his career at Celtic.
"I really want James to end his playing days here, and I didn’t want him to go elsewhere. I think he feels the same," O’Neill remarked. "The key question when you consider extending a contract is whether the player is still worth that extra year, and James has proven this season that he absolutely is." O’Neill highlighted Forrest’s impact off the bench, noting how his late‑game contributions have been "absolutely terrific" and well‑deserved.
"He’s changed games, he’s performed wonderfully, and there’s no sentimentality about it – he earned it," the manager said. He also reflected on Forrest’s journey from a young reserve player signed by former manager Neil Lennon. "He’s been immense for the club since those early days. I love players who can take on opponents, and even at his age, his burst of pace is worth its weight in gold." Celtic captain Callum McGregor echoed these sentiments, calling the extension "massively deserved." He pointed out that Forrest’s deep understanding of the club’s culture and his experience make him an invaluable asset.
"He knows the fabric of this place, how it operates, and what it takes to be a successful Celtic player. He’s won countless trophies and is always there when you need him. That kind of reliability is priceless." McGregor also addressed the harsh realities of modern football, where players are quickly discarded if they’re not deemed essential.
"There’s little room for sentiment in this business. If you’re not needed, you’re out the door. James’s continued presence shows just how important he is," he said.
"Staying at a big club for so long proves you’re doing something right." The captain praised Forrest’s adaptability over the years, noting how he has consistently evolved his game to remain a mainstay. "Every season brings new challenges, and James has adapted amazingly well throughout his career. He’s shown different facets of his game to stay relevant, and that longevity speaks volumes about his professionalism and dedication." Both O’Neill and McGregor stressed that Forrest embodies the spirit of Celtic: a player who lives and breathes football and the club’s ethos. "When you have professionals who always put the club’s best interests first, it’s crucial to keep them in the building and push forward together," McGregor concluded.
Forrest’s contract extension not only secures a veteran presence in the squad but also provides a mentorship figure for younger players aspiring to emulate his success. His record of scoring in every season he’s played for Celtic is a testament to his consistency, while his trophy cabinet serves as a benchmark for future generations. As the Scottish Premiership continues its season, Celtic fans will be eager to see how Forrest contributes in the coming months, whether as a starter, an impact substitute, or a guiding voice in the dressing room. His commitment underscores the club’s ambition to maintain its dominance domestically while also striving for success in European competitions.
The new deal also reflects Celtic’s broader strategy of blending experienced stalwarts with emerging talent, ensuring a balanced squad capable of competing on multiple fronts. Forrest’s presence offers a bridge between the club’s storied past and its future aspirations. In summary, James Forrest’s one‑year extension reaffirms his status as a Celtic legend, a player whose dedication, skill, and professionalism have left an indelible mark on the club’s history.
As he looks ahead to his eighteenth season, both fans and teammates can anticipate more memorable moments, crucial goals, and the unwavering commitment that has defined his career at Celtic.