James Forrest, the veteran winger who has become synonymous with Celtic's recent era of dominance, has signed a fresh contract that will see him remain at the Scottish champions for at least one more season. The 34‑year‑old, who already holds the distinction of being the most decorated player in the club’s modern history, agreed to a one‑year extension that will keep him on the roster for the upcoming campaign.
Forrest’s trophy cabinet is overflowing: he has collected 26 major honours during his time in the green and white hoops, a haul that includes an astonishing 13 Scottish Premiership 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 one of the 17 seasons he has spent at Celtic, a testament to his consistency and longevity.
In a heartfelt interview posted on the club’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 been so successful during my time, and I’m thrilled to have signed another year.
I’ll continue to give my best to the club for as long as I’m able to play." He went on to reflect on his future contributions: "While I’m still playing I hope to keep adding value and helping the team whenever I can. I will 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 both sentiment and performance. "I really want James to finish his career here at Celtic, and I didn’t want him to go elsewhere.
He wanted that too," O’Neill said. "The real question when you extend a contract is whether the player still adds value, and James has proved this season that he absolutely does.
He has the ability to change games, and his impact off the bench in recent weeks has been phenomenal." O’Neill continued, stripping away any romanticism to focus on merit: "Take sentimentality out of it – he earned this extension. He’s been a massive asset for the club since Neil Lennon promoted him from the reserves 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." Celtic captain Callum McGregor echoed those sentiments, highlighting Forrest’s deep understanding of the club’s culture. "Massively deserved," McGregor said.
"James has been at Celtic for a very long time. He knows the fabric of the place, how it operates, and what it takes to be a successful Celtic player.
He’s won countless trophies and brings huge experience. When you need someone, he’s always there." McGregor added that in modern football, longevity is rare and signals a player’s quality: "There isn’t much room for sentiment in this business – if you’re not needed, you’re out.
The fact that James has stayed for so long shows he’s doing something right. Every season brings new challenges, and he has adapted brilliantly throughout his career." He praised Forrest’s professionalism: "He lives and breathes football and Celtic.
Having players who are total professionals and always put the club’s best interests first is incredibly important. We need to keep these kinds of individuals in the building and push forward together." Forrest’s new contract not only secures a seasoned veteran for Celtic’s upcoming season but also underscores the club’s commitment to maintaining a core of experienced players who embody its values and winning mentality. As the team prepares for another campaign in the Scottish Premiership, fans can look forward to seeing Forrest continue to contribute, whether as a starter or an impact substitute, and to adding more chapters to an already storied career. Beyond the on‑field contributions, Forrest’s presence offers mentorship to younger squad members.
His journey—from a reserve‑team prospect to a record‑breaking icon—provides a blueprint for aspiring players within the academy. The continuity he offers helps preserve Celtic’s identity, ensuring that the club’s traditions and standards are passed down through generations.
The extension also reflects a broader strategic approach by Celtic’s management, which seeks to balance the infusion of fresh talent with the retention of proven leaders. By securing Forrest’s services, the club signals that experience and loyalty remain integral components of its long‑term plan, complementing the development of emerging stars. In summary, James Forrest’s one‑year contract renewal cements his place at Celtic for a further season, adding to a legacy that includes 26 major trophies, over a hundred goals, and an unbroken record of scoring in each of his 17 seasons.
Both manager Martin O’Neill and captain Callum McGregor have lauded his dedication, professionalism, and impact, emphasizing that his continued presence is both a reward for past contributions and a strategic asset for the future. Fans can anticipate more memorable moments, whether he is dazzling on the wing, delivering a crucial assist, or simply guiding the next generation of Celtic talent.