Captain Callum McGregor believes Celtic possess a clear advantage in the ongoing Scottish Premiership title chase and has firmly dismissed any speculation about his own exit from the club. The Glasgow side currently sit in third place, three points behind league leaders Hearts and two points adrift of Old Firm rivals Rangers.
Celtic, who have clinched 13 of the past 14 league crowns, are set to begin their post‑split fixtures on Saturday with a home clash against Falkirk, a match that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports. "I don’t think I’d be doing my job properly if I didn’t acknowledge that we have the edge," McGregor said in a recent interview.
"I see the Celtic squad day in, day out – I watch our training sessions, I observe how we have already dealt with a fair amount of adversity this season. We’ve changed managers twice, we fought back from a difficult position, we reached a cup final and we’re now preparing for another. All of those experiences have forged a mentality that wants to win and has the capacity to deliver victories." He continued, "When the team has been under pressure, we have consistently produced big results.
The next five games will be crucial, and I am confident we can replicate that resilience." McGregor highlighted the team’s habit of scoring late goals as evidence of their never‑give‑up attitude. "Those late strikes show the mentality is there – we keep pushing until the final whistle," he noted. "I have never walked into a training session thinking the season is over, nor have I ever looked around the dressing room and sensed defeat.
On the contrary, every player I see still believes we can achieve our objectives, and that belief has become a cornerstone of our campaign." He praised the squad’s character, saying, "No one can question the resilience and character of this group; they have displayed both in abundance throughout the season." The 32‑year‑old midfielder, who has already collected 24 major trophies with Celtic, was linked in January with a potential move to Saudi club Al Qadsiah, where former Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers now manages. McGregor, however, made it clear that his focus remains firmly on adding more silverware to his résumé with the Parkhead outfit.
"I have always said I want to stay at this club," he affirmed. "I have been part of Celtic since I was eight years old – it’s in my DNA, it’s something I carry with me every single day.
I simply want to ensure the club continues to push forward, to stay successful, and to keep driving for more trophies." When asked whether he envisions ending his playing career at Celtic, McGregor answered unequivocally, "Yes. It’s a two‑way street – if the club believes I still have something to contribute, and the club, as I’ve said, wants to keep pushing and achieving success, then this is where I want to play." He elaborated on the allure of staying at a club that constantly tastes success: "When you are at a club like Celtic and you experience triumph, you develop a craving for it. You want that feeling every season and you want to keep challenging yourself at the highest level possible." McGregor’s comments come at a pivotal moment in the Scottish Premiership. With the league entering its split phase, every point becomes increasingly valuable.
Celtic’s recent form has been marked by a series of gritty performances, often coming from behind to snatch vital goals in the dying minutes. This late‑goal habit not only reflects the team’s fitness and tactical discipline but also underscores a collective belief that the match is never truly over until the final whistle. The club’s managerial situation has also been a talking point. After two managerial changes this season, the current coach has managed to stabilize the squad and instill a clear playing philosophy.
Players have responded positively, showing adaptability and a willingness to embrace new ideas, which McGregor believes is a sign of the squad’s maturity. Off the pitch, Celtic’s fan base remains one of the most passionate in Europe. Supporters have rallied behind the team, filling Celtic Park with chants and banners that echo the club’s storied history.
This unwavering backing, McGregor says, fuels the players’ desire to perform at their best. Looking ahead, Celtic will aim to capitalize on their momentum in the remaining fixtures, targeting key victories against direct rivals. The upcoming match against Falkirk will serve as a litmus test for the team’s resolve and could set the tone for the final stretch of the season.
In summary, Callum McGregor’s message is clear: Celtic possess the mental fortitude, the character, and the hunger required to compete for the title, and he is fully committed to staying at the club to help achieve those goals. His steadfast dedication, combined with the squad’s resilience and the supporters’ fervor, positions Celtic as a formidable contender as the Premiership race reaches its climax.