Captain Callum McGregor believes Celtic possess a clear advantage in the Scottish Premiership title chase and has firmly rejected any speculation about his own future with the club. The Glasgow side currently sit in third place, three points adrift of leaders Hearts and two points behind their Old Firm rivals Rangers. Celtic, who have captured 13 of the last 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 wouldn't be doing my job properly if I didn't acknowledge that we have the edge," McGregor said in a candid interview.
"I see the Celtic squad day in, day out. I watch our training sessions, I observe the challenges we've already overcome this season – the turbulence of changing managers twice, bouncing back from setbacks, reaching a cup final and now preparing for another. Those experiences have forged a mindset that wants to win and believes we have the quality to do so." He went on to highlight the team's habit of delivering under pressure. "When we have been under strain, we have still managed to produce big results.
I hope we can replicate that over the next five games," he added, referencing the crucial period that will determine whether Celtic can close the gap on Hearts and Rangers. The captain also pointed to Celtic's knack for scoring late goals as evidence of the squad's relentless mentality.
"We've netted a lot of goals in the dying minutes, which tells you the mentality is there to keep pushing until the final whistle," McGregor explained. "I never walked into a training session thinking the season was over, nor did I ever look around the dressing room and see defeat. Instead, I saw a group of players who still believed we could achieve our objectives.
That belief has been vital." McGregor praised the resilience and character of his teammates, describing them as abundant qualities within the squad. "I don't think anyone can question the resilience of this group or the character they display. Those traits have been evident in abundance throughout the campaign," he said.
Despite being linked with a move to Saudi Arabian side Al Qadsiah – where former Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers now works – the 32‑year‑old captain insists his focus remains on adding more trophies to Celtic's cabinet. "I've always said I want to be at this club," McGregor affirmed. "I joined the academy when I was eight years old; Celtic is in my DNA, it's something I carry with me every single day. I want to stay here and help the club continue to push for success." He explained that ongoing discussions with the club hierarchy confirm their mutual desire to keep striving for greatness.
"The board wants to keep pushing, they want to keep being successful, and I want to be part of that," he said. "When you taste success at a club like Celtic, you want to keep it, you want that feeling every year, and you want to keep competing at the highest level possible." When asked whether he envisions ending his playing career at Celtic, McGregor responded affirmatively. "Yes, I would love to finish my career here, provided the club thinks I still have something to offer and they continue to aim for success.
The ambition here is relentless – you want to win every season and keep improving." McGregor's comments come at a pivotal moment for Celtic. The team has already demonstrated an ability to overturn deficits and secure dramatic victories, traits that could prove decisive as they aim to close the three‑point gap to Hearts and overtake Rangers in the standings.
Their upcoming fixtures, including the crucial match against Falkirk, will test the squad's depth and resolve. Beyond the immediate title race, Celtic are also competing in domestic cup competitions.
Having reached a cup final earlier in the season and now preparing for another, the club's schedule is congested, demanding both physical stamina and mental fortitude from the players. McGregor's leadership, both on and off the pitch, is expected to be a key factor in navigating these challenges. The captain's emphasis on resilience, late‑game determination, and an ingrained winning culture reflects the broader ethos that has underpinned Celtic's dominance in Scottish football over the past decade and a half. As the season enters its decisive phase, McGregor's confidence in his teammates and his own commitment to the club suggest that Celtic will continue to fight vigorously for the Premiership crown and add further silverware to their illustrious history.
Fans can follow Celtic's progress live on Sky Sports, keep up with the latest league table, and stream matches without a contract through official channels. The club also offers free highlights for supporters who want to stay updated on every twist and turn of the Scottish Premiership race. In summary, Callum McGregor remains steadfast in his belief that Celtic hold a competitive edge in the title race, dismisses any rumors of a transfer, and reaffirms his lifelong dedication to the club that has shaped his career from childhood to the present day.