James Forrest, the veteran winger who has become synonymous with Celtic Football Club, has signed a fresh contract that will keep him at the Scottish champions for the upcoming campaign. The 34‑year‑old, who already holds the distinction of being the most decorated player in the club's modern era, agreed to a one‑year extension, ensuring his presence on the squad for what will be his eighteenth season in the famous green and white hoops. Forrest's trophy cabinet is unrivaled at Celtic.
Over the course of his career he has amassed 26 major honours, a haul that includes 13 Scottish Premiership titles, seven Scottish Cups and six League Cups. Those numbers reflect not only the team's dominance during his tenure but also his personal contribution to that success. He has found the back of the net 110 times in 564 official matches, a remarkable record that highlights his consistency; remarkably, he has scored in every single one of the 17 seasons he has already completed for the club. In a heartfelt interview posted on Celtic's official website, Forrest expressed his joy at the new deal.
"I’m absolutely delighted," he said. "I’ve spent my entire professional life here and I have loved every minute of it. We have achieved so much together, and I’m thrilled to have signed another year. I will give my best to the club for as long as I am able to play." He went on to explain his mindset as he approaches the twilight of his playing days.
"While I’m still on the pitch I hope to keep contributing and helping the team whenever I can. I’m going to give everything until the day I finally hang up my boots. When that day comes, I will look back on a mountain of great memories, but I still hope to add a few more before I call it a career," he added. Manager Martin O'Neill praised the decision, noting how much the club values Forrest’s experience and professionalism.
"I really want James to finish his career here at Celtic. I didn’t want him to go elsewhere, and I think he feels the same way," O'Neill said. "The key question when you consider extending a contract is whether the player still adds value. James has proved this season that he does.
He changes games, comes off the bench with impact, and his contributions have been absolutely terrific." O'Neill also highlighted the sentimental but practical reasons for the extension. "Take sentimentality out of it – he has earned it. He has been a huge asset for the club since Neil Lennon brought him through the reserves as a youngster.
Even at his age, that burst of pace he still possesses is worth its weight in gold," the manager remarked. Celtic captain Callum McGregor echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Forrest’s importance beyond statistics.
"Massively deserved," McGregor said. "James has been at the club for a very long time. He knows the fabric of Celtic, how it operates, and what it takes to be successful here.
He has won countless trophies and brings huge experience. When you need someone, he is always there." McGregor also spoke about the harsh realities of modern football, where players are quickly discarded if they are not deemed essential. "There isn’t much room for sentiment in football.
If you’re not needed, you’re out the door. The fact that James is still here shows how valuable he is," he noted. "Being at a big club for such a long period tells you you’re doing something right. Every season brings new challenges, and James has adapted brilliantly throughout his career." The captain added that Forrest’s professionalism sets a benchmark for younger players.
"He lives and breathes football and Celtic. When you have guys like that – total professionals who always put the club’s best interests first – it’s vital to keep them around and let them lead the way," McGregor concluded. Forrest’s contract renewal also has broader implications for Celtic’s squad planning. As the club looks to maintain its dominance in the Scottish Premiership and push deeper into European competitions, retaining a player with such a wealth of experience provides stability and mentorship for emerging talents.
His ability to influence games from the wing, his knack for scoring crucial goals, and his leadership in the dressing room are assets that cannot be easily replaced. Beyond the on‑field impact, Forrest’s presence is a marketing boon for Celtic. Fans across Scotland and the diaspora identify with his loyalty and longevity, reinforcing the club’s image as a family‑oriented institution that values its home‑grown heroes. Merchandise featuring his name continues to sell well, and his involvement in community outreach programs further cements his status as a club ambassador.
Looking ahead, the upcoming season promises to be another chapter in Forrest’s storied Celtic saga. Whether he starts matches or continues to make a difference as an impact sub, his commitment to giving everything for the badge remains unwavering.
As he himself put it, the goal is to keep adding to the list of cherished memories before the inevitable day he hangs up his boots. In summary, James Forrest’s new one‑year contract not only rewards a player who has contributed 110 goals and 26 trophies but also secures a seasoned professional whose influence extends far beyond the pitch.
His dedication, experience, and passion for Celtic make him an indispensable figure as the club aims to sustain its domestic supremacy and pursue greater success on the European stage. (Additional content such as live Scottish Premiership tables, streaming options, and promotional messages were omitted for brevity.)