James Forrest, the veteran winger who has become synonymous with Celtic Football Club, has officially signed a fresh contract that will keep him at the Scottish Premiership giants for at least another year. At 34, Forrest already holds the distinction of being Celtic’s most decorated player in the modern era, and this new agreement adds another chapter to his long‑standing association with the Hoops. The one‑year extension was confirmed by the club earlier this week, and it ensures that the seasoned professional will continue to wear the green and white strip for the upcoming campaign.
Forrest’s résumé at Celtic is staggering: he has amassed a total of 26 major trophies, a haul that includes an impressive thirteen league championships, seven Scottish Cups and six League Cups. His goal‑scoring record is equally remarkable, with 110 goals to his name across 564 appearances – a tally that reflects his consistency, having found the net in each of the seventeen seasons he has spent at Celtic Park. In a heartfelt interview posted on the official Celtic website, Forrest expressed his enthusiasm about the new deal. “I’m absolutely delighted,” he said.
“I’ve been here my whole career and I’ve loved every minute of it. We’ve been so successful in my time here and I’m thrilled to have signed another year. I’ll give my best to the club for however long I’m here.” He went on to explain that, as long as his body allows him to compete, he intends to keep contributing on the pitch, adding that he hopes to create a few more memorable moments before eventually hanging up his boots.
“When I do stop, I’ll look back on so many great memories, but hopefully I can make a few more before I finish,” he added. Manager Martin O’Neill praised Forrest’s commitment and highlighted the practical reasons behind the extension. “I really want James to finish his career here at Celtic, and I didn’t want him to go elsewhere.
He wanted that as well,” O’Neill explained. “The key question when you consider offering an extra year is whether the player is still worth it, and James has proved this season that he absolutely is.
He has changed games, especially when coming off the bench, and his recent contributions have been terrific. It’s not just sentiment; he has earned it.” O’Neill also reflected on Forrest’s development from a young reserve player recruited by former manager Neil Lennon, noting that even at his age, his burst of pace remains “worth its weight in gold.” Celtic captain Callum McGregor echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Forrest’s importance beyond statistics. “Massively deserved.
He’s been at the club for a long, long time now. He knows the fabric of the place, knows how it operates, knows what it takes to be a successful Celtic player,” McGregor said.
He highlighted Forrest’s trophy cabinet, describing him as a player with “huge experience who is always there when you need him.” McGregor pointed out that football is a business where sentiment rarely matters; if a player is not needed, he is quickly replaced. “James’s longevity shows he’s doing something right,” the captain added, noting that the veteran has continually adapted his game to meet the evolving demands of each season.
The contract renewal is also significant in the broader context of Celtic’s squad planning. As the club looks to maintain its dominance in the Scottish Premiership while also competing in European competitions, having a player of Forrest’s experience provides a stabilising influence for younger teammates.
His understanding of the club’s culture, combined with his ability to deliver crucial moments—whether as a starter or a super‑sub—offers tactical flexibility that few other players can match. Beyond the pitch, Forrest’s presence is valuable for the community and the fanbase. Over his seventeen‑year tenure, he has become a familiar face in Glasgow, participating in charity events, youth coaching sessions, and various club‑led outreach programmes. His dedication to the Celtic brand extends to off‑field initiatives, where he often serves as an ambassador, helping to foster the strong bond between the club and its supporters.
Looking ahead, the upcoming season promises several challenges for Celtic, including a tightly contested league race and the pursuit of deeper runs in continental tournaments. Forrest’s contract ensures that the team retains a seasoned professional who can mentor emerging talents, provide leadership in high‑pressure moments, and still contribute decisive goals when called upon.
In summary, James Forrest’s new one‑year deal reaffirms his status as a cornerstone of Celtic Football Club. With an unrivalled collection of domestic trophies, a goal‑scoring record that spans nearly two decades, and a reputation for professionalism both on and off the field, Forrest remains an integral part of the club’s identity.
As he prepares for what could be his final season in the green and white, both the management and his teammates have expressed confidence that he will continue to add value, inspire the next generation, and perhaps, add a few more cherished memories to his already illustrious Celtic legacy.