Captain Callum McGregor insists that Celtic possess a clear advantage in the Scottish Premiership title battle, while also dismissing any speculation about his own future with the club. The Hoops currently sit in third place, three points behind league leaders Hearts and two points shy of Old Firm rivals Rangers.
Having claimed 13 of the last 14 league crowns, Celtic are set to begin their post‑split fixtures on Saturday with a home clash against Falkirk, a match that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports. McGregor explained his confidence in the squad’s position, saying, "I don't think I'd be doing my job properly if I didn't believe we have the edge." He went on to detail the daily observations that reinforce his optimism: the intensity of training sessions, the way the group has navigated a season marked by adversity, and the resilience shown after two managerial changes.
"We've faced a fair share of challenges this campaign – a change of manager twice, a comeback from a difficult patch, a cup final appearance and now another cup final on the horizon – and each time the team has responded positively," McGregor said. "I see enough evidence that the players want to win and have the capacity to do so.
When the pressure is on, they have historically produced big results, and I expect the same over the next five games." The captain highlighted the team's habit of scoring late goals as a sign of their fighting spirit. "Those late strikes tell you the mentality is there to keep pushing until the final whistle," he noted. He also emphasized that he never once entered a training session feeling the campaign was lost, nor did he ever see a lack of belief in the dressing room.
"Everyone still thinks we can achieve this," he observed, adding that the resilience and character of the group are evident in abundance. McGregor, who has lifted 24 major trophies with Celtic, was linked in January with a possible reunion with former manager Brendan Rodgers at Saudi side Al Qadsiah. The 32‑year‑old, however, made it clear that his focus remains on adding more silverware to his collection at Parkhead. "I've always said I want to stay at this club," he affirmed.
"I joined the academy when I was eight years old – Celtic is in my DNA, it’s something I carry with me every day. I want to be here and help the club continue to push for success." He also addressed the club’s ambitions, noting that conversations with senior officials indicate a shared desire to keep progressing.
"For me, this is the place I want to play," McGregor said. When asked whether he envisions ending his playing career at Celtic, he responded affirmatively, explaining that his decision hinges on two factors: the club’s belief that he still has something to contribute, and the organization’s continued drive for achievement. "When you experience success at a club like Celtic, you develop a taste for it and you want to keep it," he remarked. "You want to chase that success year after year, striving to compete at the highest level possible." The captain’s remarks come at a pivotal moment in the season.
Celtic, long dominant in Scottish football, are now navigating a tighter race with Hearts leading and Rangers close behind. Their upcoming fixtures will be crucial in determining whether they can close the gap and reclaim the top spot.
Beyond the immediate title fight, McGregor’s comments underline the broader narrative of Celtic’s identity: a club built on a tradition of winning, a deep connection with its supporters, and a squad that, despite managerial turnover and the inevitable ups and downs of a long season, continues to exhibit a relentless desire to succeed. His personal commitment – having grown up within the Celtic system – reinforces the notion that the club’s future remains intertwined with players who embody its values. As the season progresses, Celtic’s ability to maintain composure under pressure, convert late chances into goals, and sustain the belief that they can still claim the championship will be tested. McGregor’s confidence suggests that, at least from the captain’s perspective, the team possesses both the mental fortitude and the tactical quality required to seize the title.
The upcoming match against Falkirk will provide an early indicator of how the Hoops intend to navigate the post‑split phase. A strong performance could reinforce McGregor’s assertion that Celtic have the edge, while any setbacks would highlight the challenges that still lie ahead in a fiercely contested league. In summary, Callum McGregor’s statements combine a firm belief in Celtic’s current advantage, a dismissal of rumors about his departure, and a personal pledge to continue fighting for trophies at a club that has shaped his entire footballing life. His words reflect both confidence and a realistic acknowledgment of the work still required to turn the title race in Celtic’s favour.