James Forrest, the veteran winger who has become synonymous with Celtic Football Club, has finalized a fresh agreement that will see him remain with the Glasgow side for another season. At 34 years of age, Forrest, who already holds the distinction of being the most decorated player in the club's modern era, has added a one‑year extension to his contract with the reigning Scottish Premiership champions.
The new deal reinforces Forrest's long‑standing relationship with Celtic, a partnership that has produced an impressive haul of 26 major trophies. His trophy cabinet includes 13 league championships, seven Scottish Cups and six League Cups, underscoring his pivotal role in one of the most successful periods in the club's history. Over the course of his 17‑year tenure, Forrest has made 564 appearances and found the back of the net 110 times, a goal tally that reflects his consistent contribution across every season he has played for the Hoops.
In a heartfelt interview posted on Celtic's official website, Forrest expressed his enthusiasm about the extension. "I’m absolutely delighted," he said. "I’ve spent my entire professional career here and I’ve cherished every moment. The success we’ve enjoyed together has been extraordinary, and I’m thrilled to sign on for another year.
I will continue to give my utmost for the club for as long as I am able to wear this shirt." He went on to reflect on his future, acknowledging both the desire to keep adding to his legacy and the reality of eventual retirement. "While I’m still playing, I hope to keep contributing whenever I can, giving everything until the day I hang up my boots. When that day comes, I will look back on countless great memories, and I hope to create a few more before I call time on my career," he added.
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill praised the decision, emphasizing the mutual desire for Forrest to finish his playing days at the club that nurtured him. "I really want James to end his career here at Celtic. I didn’t want him to go elsewhere, and I think he feels the same," O'Neill explained.
"When you consider extending a contract, you have to be sure the player still adds value. James has proven this season that he is still worth that extra year. He’s changed games, performed brilliantly off the bench, and his contributions have been nothing short of spectacular." O'Neill also highlighted Forrest's evolution from a reserve‑team prospect to a senior stalwart.
"He has 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," O'Neill remarked, underscoring the blend of experience and athleticism that Forrest still offers. Celtic captain Callum McGregor echoed these sentiments, describing Forrest as a vital figure whose longevity and professionalism set a benchmark for the squad.
"Massively deserved. He’s been at the club for a long, long time and understands the fabric of Celtic.
He knows what it takes to be successful here," McGregor said. "He’s won countless trophies and brings huge experience. When you need someone, he’s always there.
That kind of reliability is invaluable." McGregor also spoke about the harsh realities of modern football, where sentiment often takes a back seat to performance. "There’s little room for sentiment in this business.
If you’re not needed, you’re out. The fact that James is still required 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, showing different facets of his game to remain a mainstay." He concluded by praising Forrest’s dedication to the club’s ethos.
"He lives and breathes football and Celtic. Having professionals like him, who always put the club’s best interests first, is crucial. We need to keep players like James in the building and push forward together," McGregor added. Forrest’s contract extension not only secures a seasoned campaign for a player who has become a Celtic icon but also sends a clear message about the club’s commitment to honoring its home‑grown talent.
His continued presence will provide mentorship to younger squad members, maintain a link to the club’s recent history of dominance, and offer tactical flexibility for O'Neill as he navigates the demands of domestic and European competition. Beyond the immediate impact on the pitch, Forrest’s renewed stay has broader implications for Celtic’s brand and fan engagement. Supporters, many of whom have followed his journey from the reserves to the first team, view his loyalty as a testament to the club’s culture of nurturing and retaining talent. In an era where player turnover is high, Forrest’s decision to stay reinforces the narrative of Celtic as a family where long‑term relationships are valued.
Looking ahead, the upcoming season promises a blend of familiar challenges and new opportunities. Celtic will be defending their league title while also seeking success in the Scottish Cup, the League Cup, and European competitions.
Forrest’s experience, especially his knack for delivering decisive moments off the bench, could prove decisive in tightly contested matches. In summary, James Forrest’s one‑year contract extension solidifies his place at Celtic for an eighteenth season, adding another chapter to a storied career that has already produced 26 major honors and 110 goals.
Both manager Martin O'Neill and captain Callum McGregor have lauded his professionalism, adaptability, and enduring contribution to the club’s success. As Forrest prepares for what may be his final years on the field, he does so with the full support of the management, his teammates, and a fan base that cherishes his legacy and looks forward to more memorable moments in the iconic green and white hoops.