James Forrest, the veteran winger who has become synonymous with Celtic Football Club, has confirmed a fresh contract that will see him remain with the Scottish Premiership champions for the upcoming campaign. At 34 years of age, Forrest, who already holds the distinction of being the most decorated player in the club's modern history, has added a one‑year extension to his existing terms, ensuring his presence on the sidelines for at least another season.
Forrest's trophy cabinet is unrivaled at Celtic. Over the course of his tenure, he has amassed an astonishing 26 major honours, a haul that includes thirteen league championships, seven Scottish Cups and six League Cups. His consistency and longevity are further highlighted by his goal‑scoring record: 110 goals in 564 appearances, a tally that spans all seventeen seasons he has spent in a Celtic shirt.
Remarkably, he has found the net in every single season he has played for the Hoops, underscoring his reliability as a match‑winner. In a candid interview posted on Celtic's official website, Forrest expressed his delight at the new deal. "I’m absolutely delighted.
I’ve been here my full career and I’ve loved every minute of it," he said. He went on to reflect on the club's sustained success during his time, adding, "We’ve been so successful in my time here and I’m delighted to have signed another year, and I’ll just give my best to the club for however long I’m here." Forrest also hinted at his desire to keep contributing on the pitch for as long as his body allows. "While I’m still playing I can hopefully keep contributing and helping the team when I can and I’m just going to give it everything until I finish.
When I do stop, I will look back on so many great memories, but hopefully I can make a few more before I do finish," he explained. His words reveal a blend of gratitude, ambition, and a clear intention to add more chapters to his already storied Celtic narrative. Manager Martin O'Neill praised the decision, emphasizing both sentiment and practicality. "I really want James to finish his career here at Celtic, and I just didn’t want him to be going elsewhere, and I think he wanted that as well," O'Neill remarked.
He continued, "The major point about taking anyone on is to know whether they’re worth an extra year and James has proved this season that he has been worth that. He has changed games, and he has done wonderfully well. His contribution in recent weeks when he’s come off the bench has been absolutely terrific, and he has deserved it, and that’s the point.
So, take sentimentality right out of it, he’s deserved it." O'Neill also reflected on Forrest’s evolution from a youthful reserve player to a seasoned professional. "He’s been immense for the football club since Neil Lennon brought him in when he was a young kid in the reserves, and he is what I love – I love players who take people on and he can take people on, even to have that little burst of pace at his age is worth its weight in gold," the manager said, highlighting the rare combination of experience and still‑present athleticism that Forrest brings.
Celtic captain Callum McGregor echoed these sentiments, underscoring Forrest’s importance beyond the statistics. "Massively deserved. He’s someone who has 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 praised the winger’s trophy‑laden career and his readiness to step up whenever called upon. "He’s won countless trophies. Someone with huge experience who is always there when you need him.
Someone like that is invaluable to your football club." McGregor also touched on the harsh realities of modern football, where sentiment often yields to performance. "I don’t think there’s much room in football for sentiment. The minute you’re not needed you’re out the door, so it just shows you how important he is," he noted.
The captain’s remarks illustrate the respect Forrest commands within the squad, not merely as a veteran but as a player whose professionalism and dedication continue to set a benchmark for younger teammates. Throughout his seventeen‑year spell, Forrest has adapted his game to meet the evolving demands of top‑level football. Whether operating as a traditional wide‑player, cutting inside to create scoring opportunities, or providing an experienced option off the bench, he has consistently demonstrated tactical flexibility. This adaptability has allowed him to remain a regular feature in a club that has seen multiple managerial changes and shifting tactical philosophies.
The new contract also reflects Celtic’s broader strategy of retaining key figures who embody the club’s identity and culture. In an era where many clubs chase younger, high‑profile signings, Celtic’s decision to keep a player like Forrest underscores a commitment to continuity, loyalty, and the preservation of a winning ethos. Forrest’s presence offers a living link between the club’s illustrious past and its future ambitions, providing mentorship to emerging talents while still contributing on the pitch. Fans have welcomed the news with enthusiasm, posting tributes across social media platforms.
Many highlighted memorable moments such as his decisive goals in cup finals, his relentless work ethic in training, and his charismatic personality that resonates with supporters. The extension has been described as a "gift" to the Celtic faithful, ensuring that the familiar face they have cheered for over nearly two decades will continue to don the iconic green and white hoops. In summary, James Forrest’s new one‑year deal cements his status as a Celtic legend and guarantees that the club will benefit from his experience, skill, and unwavering commitment for at least another season.
Both the manager and the captain have lauded his contributions, and the winger himself remains eager to add further chapters to his remarkable story. As the Scottish Premiership approaches, all eyes will be on Forrest to see how he continues to influence games, mentor younger players, and perhaps, add another trophy to his already impressive collection.