Captain Callum McGregor believes Celtic possess a distinct advantage in the Scottish Premiership title race and has firmly dismissed any speculation about his own future with the club. The Glasgow side currently sit in third place, three points behind league leaders Hearts and two points shy of Old Firm rivals Rangers. Celtic, who have claimed 13 of the last 14 league crowns, will begin their post‑split fixtures on Saturday with a home match against Falkirk, broadcast live on Sky Sports. "I don’t think I’d be doing my job properly if I didn’t feel we have the edge," McGregor said in a recent interview.
"I see the Celtic squad every day, I watch how we train, I see the obstacles we’ve already overcome this season – a bit of adversity, two managerial changes, fighting back from a difficult position, reaching a cup final and now preparing for another." He went on to explain that the signs are clear that the group is hungry for victory and possesses the ability to secure it. "When the team has been under pressure, they have produced big results, and I hope we can replicate that over the next five games," he added.
McGregor highlighted the team’s habit of scoring late goals as evidence of a resilient mentality. "Those late strikes tell you the mentality is there – we keep pushing, we keep believing," he said. "I never walked into a training session thinking we were finished.
I never looked around the dressing room and saw defeat. What struck me was that everyone still believes we can achieve this, and that belief has been crucial." He praised the squad’s character, stating, "I don’t think anyone can question the resilience or the character of this group – it’s there in abundance." The captain, who has lifted 24 major trophies with Celtic, was linked in January with a possible move to Saudi club Al Qadsiah, where former manager Brendan Rodgers now works. However, the 32‑year‑old made it clear that his focus remains on adding more silverware to his collection while wearing the Parkhead jersey. "I’ve always said I want to be at this club," McGregor affirmed.
"I’ve been here since I was eight years old. It’s in my DNA, it’s something I carry with me every single day. I want to stay here." He emphasized his desire for Celtic to continue striving for success.
"I just want to make sure the club keeps pushing, wants to be successful and wants to drive forward. And obviously, the conversations I have with the board reflect that they share the same ambition.
So for me, this is the place I want to play." When asked whether he envisions ending his playing career at Celtic, McGregor responded positively. "Yeah, it’s a two‑fold situation: if the club thinks I still have something to offer, and if the club, as I said, wants to keep pushing and staying successful, then I’m happy to stay." He reflected on the club’s culture of winning, noting, "When you’re at a club like Celtic and you taste success, you want to keep it.
You want that feeling every season, you want to keep pushing and trying to play at the highest level possible." McGregor’s comments come at a pivotal moment in the Scottish Premiership, as the league enters its split phase and the battle for the title intensifies. Celtic’s recent form has been marked by a series of hard‑won victories, often secured through late goals that underscore the team’s fighting spirit. Their ability to rebound from setbacks – including managerial turnover and cup final disappointments – has been a recurring theme throughout the campaign. The captain also touched on the broader context of Scottish football, acknowledging the strength of their rivals.
"Hearts have been consistent, and Rangers are always a threat. But we have the belief and the depth to compete with anyone," he said. "Our fans expect nothing less, and we feel that responsibility every time we step onto the pitch." Looking ahead, McGregor highlighted the importance of the upcoming fixtures. "The next five games are crucial.
We need to maintain our momentum, stay focused, and keep delivering the performances that have gotten us this far," he explained. "If we can do that, the title is within reach." While transfer rumours have swirled around several Celtic players this season, McGregor’s steadfast commitment serves as a reminder of his loyalty to the club that shaped his career.
His long‑term association with Celtic, beginning in the youth ranks at age eight, has forged a deep connection that he says influences his daily mindset. In summary, Callum McGregor remains confident that Celtic hold a competitive edge in the race for the Scottish Premiership crown. He dismissed any speculation about leaving, reaffirmed his dedication to the club’s ambitions, and stressed the importance of resilience, character, and a winning mentality as the team pushes toward the season’s climax.