James Forrest, the veteran winger who has become synonymous with Celtic Football Club, has signed a fresh one‑year contract that will keep him on the squad for the upcoming campaign. At 34, Forrest already holds the distinction of being the most decorated player in the club's modern era, and this new agreement adds another chapter to his enduring legacy. The extension was confirmed by Celtic, who announced that the 34‑year‑old will remain with the current Scottish Premiership champions for at least one more season.
Throughout his tenure, Forrest has amassed an astonishing 26 major trophies, a haul that includes 13 league crowns, seven Scottish Cups and six League Cups. His goal‑scoring record is equally impressive: 110 strikes in 564 appearances, and remarkably, he has found the net in every single one of the 17 seasons he has represented the Hoops.
In a candid interview on the club’s official website, Forrest expressed his enthusiasm about the new deal. "I’m absolutely delighted," he said. "I’ve spent my entire professional career here and I’ve loved every minute of it. We have enjoyed an extraordinary level of success during my time, and I’m thrilled to have signed on for another year.
I will continue to give my utmost for the club for as long as I am able to play." He went on to reflect on his future contributions, noting, "While I’m still on the pitch I hope to keep adding value and helping the team whenever I can. I will give everything I have until the day I hang up my boots. When that day arrives, I’ll look back on countless wonderful memories, and I hope to create a few more before I finally step away." Manager Martin O’Neill praised the decision, emphasizing the importance of retaining a player of Forrest’s caliber. "I really want James to finish his career here at Celtic," O’Neill said.
"I didn’t want him to go elsewhere, and I think he felt the same. The key question when you consider extending a contract is whether the player still offers value, and James has proven this season that he absolutely does." O’Neill highlighted Forrest’s impact off the bench, stating, "He has changed games, and his recent contributions as a substitute have been phenomenal. He earned this extension, plain and simple. Sentiment aside, he deserves it." He added a personal note about Forrest’s journey, recalling how the player was brought into the first team by former manager Neil Lennon when he was still a youngster in the reserves.
"He embodies the type of player I love – someone who can take on opponents and still retain a burst of pace even at his age. That speed is worth its weight in gold for us." Celtic captain Callum McGregor also weighed in, describing Forrest’s renewal as "massively deserved." He explained, "James has been at the club for a very long time. He knows the fabric of Celtic, how it operates, and what it takes to be successful here.
He has collected countless trophies and brings a wealth of experience that is always available when the team needs it." McGregor stressed the pragmatic nature of modern football, noting that clubs rarely keep players for sentimental reasons alone. "There’s little room for sentiment in this business. If you’re not needed, you’re out the door. The fact that James continues to be selected shows how vital he is," he said.
"Staying at a club like Celtic for so many seasons proves you’re doing something right." He continued, "Each season brings new challenges, and James has adapted brilliantly throughout his career. He has shown different facets of his game to remain a mainstay. When a player lives and breathes football and Celtic, as James does, it’s essential for the club to retain such professionals who always act in the club’s best interests." Beyond the immediate contract news, the announcement was accompanied by typical club updates: the latest Scottish Premiership table, streaming options for matches, and free highlights. Fans were reminded to use the Chrome browser for optimal video playback, and a promotional note invited readers to participate in a Super 6 competition with a chance to win £250,000.
Overall, Forrest’s new deal underscores both his personal commitment to Celtic and the club’s desire to keep its most experienced and successful players on board. As the season approaches, supporters can look forward to seeing the veteran winger continue to add his trademark pace, work‑rate, and goal‑scoring instinct to the Celtic attack, while also mentoring younger squad members and reinforcing the winning culture that has defined his remarkable career.