Captain Callum McGregor believes Celtic possess a decisive edge in the ongoing Scottish Premiership title contest and has firmly dismissed any speculation about his own future at the club. The Glasgow side currently sit in third place, three points adrift of league leaders Hearts and two points behind their Old Firm rivals Rangers. Having secured 13 of the last 14 league crowns, Celtic are set to begin their post‑split schedule on Saturday with a home match against Falkirk, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
"I wouldn't be doing my job properly if I didn't feel that we have the edge," McGregor said in a recent interview. "I see the Celtic squad every day, I watch how we train, and I recognise the obstacles we've already overcome this season – a change of manager twice, a comeback from a difficult position, a cup final appearance and now another final on the horizon." He continued, "There are clear signs that the group wants to win and has the ability to do so. Historically, when we have been under pressure the team has delivered big results, so I am hopeful we can replicate that over the next five games." McGregor highlighted the team's recent habit of scoring late goals as evidence of a resilient mentality: "We've netted a lot of goals in the dying minutes, which shows we have the determination to keep pushing until the final whistle.
I never walked into a training session thinking the season was over, nor did I ever look around the dressing room and see defeat. On the contrary, everyone still believes we can achieve our objectives, and that belief has been crucial." He praised the character and perseverance of the squad, adding, "I don't think anyone can question the resilience or the character of this group – those qualities are present in abundance." McGregor, a 32‑year‑old midfielder who has lifted 24 major trophies with Celtic, was linked in January with a possible move to Saudi Arabian side Al Qadsiah, where former Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers now works. He has categorically denied any intention to leave, emphasizing his commitment to the club that has shaped his entire footballing life.
"I've always said I want to stay at this club," McGregor explained. "I joined the academy when I was eight years old; Celtic is in my DNA, it's something I carry with me every day. My aim is to help the team continue to push for success and to drive forward." When asked whether he envisions ending his playing days at Celtic, he responded affirmatively: "Absolutely. It’s a two‑way street – if the club feels I still have something to contribute and the organization wants to keep striving for success, then I’m happy to stay.
When you taste success at a club like Celtic, you want to keep that feeling alive. You want to chase it every season and keep playing at the highest level possible." The captain also touched on the broader context of the Scottish Premiership, noting that the league remains fiercely competitive with frequent shifts in momentum.
He praised the quality of opposition, especially the pressure exerted by Hearts and Rangers, and stressed that Celtic must maintain consistency to close the gap. "The league is very tight right now," he said. "Every point matters, and we have to be ruthless in our approach. The fans expect us to fight for the title, and we have to deliver.
Our recent comeback victories and late‑game heroics show we have the mental strength, but we also need to be more clinical in front of goal and tighten up defensively." Looking ahead, McGregor outlined the key fixtures that could define Celtic's title bid, including the upcoming clash with Falkirk and subsequent matches against the top two sides. He stressed the importance of squad depth, noting that the team's ability to rotate players without losing quality will be vital during the congested final phase of the season. "We have a deep squad, and the manager trusts everyone to step up when called upon," he added.
"Injuries are part of the game, but we have to be ready to adapt and still perform at a high level." Beyond the pitch, McGregor reflected on his personal journey, recalling the early days in the Celtic youth system, the mentorship he received from senior players, and the pride he feels wearing the famous green and white hoops. He expressed gratitude for the support of the fans, who he described as the "twelfth man" that fuels the team's ambition. "The fans are incredible. Their passion drives us, and we want to give them something to celebrate," he said.
"Every time we step onto the pitch at Parkhead, we feel the weight of history and the expectation to win. That responsibility motivates us to work harder and aim higher." In summary, McGregor's message was clear: Celtic possess the talent, resilience, and desire to challenge for the championship, and he remains fully committed to the club's cause. While rumors of a transfer to Al Qadsiah have surfaced, the captain's focus stays firmly on delivering more trophies for the side he has represented since childhood. The upcoming fixtures will test the team's resolve, but with McGregor leading by example, Celtic fans can look forward to a compelling finish to the season.