James Forrest, the veteran winger who has become synonymous with Celtic's recent dominance, has put pen to paper on a fresh contract that will see him remain at the club for the upcoming campaign. At 34 years of age, Forrest is already the most decorated player in Celtic's modern era, and the one-year extension adds another chapter to his storied association with the Scottish Premiership champions. The new agreement was confirmed by the club on Friday, and it underscores the mutual desire of both player and institution to continue a partnership that has yielded 26 major trophies.
Those silverware pieces include an astonishing 13 league crowns, seven Scottish Cups and six League Cups – a haul that cements Forrest's status as a Celtic legend. Over the course of 564 senior appearances, he has found the net 110 times, a goal in every single season of his 17-year tenure at Celtic Park.
In a heartfelt interview posted on Celtic's official website, Forrest expressed his enthusiasm for the fresh deal. "I’m absolutely delighted," he said. "I’ve spent my entire professional career here and I’ve loved every minute of it.
The success we have enjoyed together has been incredible, and I’m thrilled to sign on for another year. I will give my absolute best for as long as I am able to wear the green and white jersey." He went on to reflect on the longevity of his career, noting that while he still feels capable of contributing on the pitch, he also wants to leave a lasting legacy.
"While I’m still playing I hope to keep adding to the team whenever I can," he added. "I will give everything until the day I finally hang up my boots. When that moment arrives, I’ll look back on a flood of wonderful memories, and I hope to create a few more before I call time on my playing days." Celtic manager Martin O'Neill praised the decision, emphasizing both sentiment and practicality. "I really want James to finish his career here at Celtic.
I didn’t want him to go elsewhere, and I think he felt the same," O'Neill explained. "When you consider extending a contract you have to ask whether the player is still worth that extra year, and James has proved this season that he absolutely is. He’s changed games, coming off the bench with a burst of energy that has been priceless. It’s not just sentiment – it’s earned." O'Neill also highlighted the player’s development from a reserve‑team prospect to a key first‑team figure.
"He’s been immense for the club since Neil Lennon brought him in as a youngster," the manager said. "He still possesses that little burst of pace, and at his age that speed is worth its weight in gold. He can take on defenders, create chances and inspire the squad with his professionalism." Celtic captain Callum McGregor echoed these sentiments, describing Forrest as an indispensable part of the club’s fabric. "Massively deserved," McGregor said.
"James has been at Celtic for a long, long time. He knows how the club works, what it takes to succeed here, and he has collected countless trophies. His experience is invaluable; when you need a player who can step up at any moment, he’s the one you call." McGregor also touched on the harsh realities of modern football, where sentiment often takes a back seat to performance. "There isn’t much room for sentiment in this business.
If you’re not needed, you’re out the door. That’s why James’s continued presence is a testament to his quality," he noted. "Being able to stay at a big club for so many years shows you’re doing something right.
Every season brings new challenges, and James has adapted brilliantly, showing different sides of his game to remain a mainstay." He concluded by praising Forrest’s professionalism and love for Celtic. "He lives and breathes football and Celtic.
Players like him, who are total professionals and always put the club’s interests first, are essential for keeping the team moving in the right direction," McGregor added. Forrest’s contract extension also has broader implications for Celtic’s squad planning. With the club looking to blend youthful exuberance with seasoned expertise, retaining a player of Forrest’s calibre provides a stable anchor for younger talents to learn from. His experience in high‑pressure matches, both domestically and in European competition, offers a mentorship role that goes beyond the ninety minutes on the pitch.
In addition to his on‑field contributions, Forrest’s off‑field presence is equally significant. He is a regular figure in community outreach programs, charity events, and fan engagement activities. His long‑standing relationship with the supporters has helped foster a strong bond between the team and its fanbase, reinforcing the club’s identity and culture.
Looking ahead, Celtic will aim to build on the momentum generated by their recent successes. The club’s management has indicated that they are focused on retaining key players while also making strategic signings to strengthen the squad. Forrest’s renewal signals a clear message: the club values continuity and experience as much as it does fresh talent. As the new season approaches, Celtic supporters can look forward to seeing their beloved winger continue to add his trademark pace, work‑rate and tactical intelligence to the team’s attacking options.
Whether he starts matches or provides an impact off the bench, James Forrest remains a vital component of Celtic’s quest for more titles. The announcement was accompanied by a series of related Celtic news items, including live Premiership tables, streaming options for matches, and highlights.
Fans were reminded to use a Chrome browser for optimal video playback, and a promotional note invited readers to try a free trial of the league’s streaming service. The club also teased a Super 6 competition offering a £250,000 prize, encouraging further engagement from the Celtic community. Overall, James Forrest’s new deal is more than just a contract extension; it is a reaffirmation of his deep-rooted connection to Celtic, a celebration of his achievements, and a promise of continued dedication to the club’s ambitions for the future.