Captain Callum McGregor believes Celtic possess a distinct advantage in the ongoing Scottish Premiership title chase and has firmly denied any speculation about his own future at the club. The Glasgow side currently sit in third place, three points behind league leaders Heart of Midlothian and two points adrift of arch‑rivals Rangers, positioning them within striking distance of the top spot.
Celtic, who have secured 13 of the last 14 league crowns, are set to begin their post‑split schedule on Saturday with a home fixture against Falkirk, a match that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports. McGregor explained that his confidence in the team’s prospects stems from daily observations of training sessions and the resilience the squad has already demonstrated this season. "I wouldn't be doing my job properly if I didn't think we have the edge," McGregor said. "I see the Celtic group every day, I watch how we train, and I know what we have already overcome – a bit of adversity, a change of manager twice, and the need to bounce back from setbacks.
We reached a cup final, and now we’re heading into another." He continued, "There are plenty of signs that the players want to win and have the ability to do so. When the team has been under pressure in the past, they have produced big results, and I hope we can repeat that over the next five games." The captain highlighted the side’s habit of scoring late goals as evidence of a never‑give‑up mentality. "We've netted a lot of late winners, which tells you the mentality is there to keep pushing," he said.
"I never walked into a training session thinking we were finished, nor did I ever look around the dressing room and see defeat. Everyone still believes we can achieve our goals, and that belief has been crucial." McGregor praised the group’s resilience and character, describing them as abundant. "I don't think anyone can question the resilience or the character of this group. Those qualities have been evident throughout the campaign." The 32‑year‑old midfielder, who has amassed 24 major trophies with Celtic, was linked in January with a potential move to Saudi Arabian side Al Qadsiah, where former Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers now works.
He dismissed those rumors, emphasizing his commitment to the Parkhead faithful. "I've always said I want to stay at this club," McGregor asserted.
"I joined the academy when I was eight years old – Celtic is in my DNA, it’s something I carry with me every day. I want to be here and help the club continue to push for success." He added that conversations with the club’s hierarchy indicate a mutual desire to keep striving for silverware. "The board wants to keep pushing, they want to stay successful, and I want to be part of that.
When you taste success at a club like Celtic, you want to keep it year after year and keep playing at the highest level possible," he said. When asked whether he envisions ending his playing days at Celtic, McGregor responded affirmatively.
"Yes, I’d love to finish my career here. It’s a two‑way street – if the club thinks I still have something to offer and they want to keep competing, then I’m happy to stay.
The ambition here is relentless, and I share that ambition." The captain’s remarks come at a crucial juncture in the season, as the league splits and each team faces five more fixtures that will determine final positions. Celtic’s recent form has been mixed, but their ability to rally from behind and secure late victories has become a hallmark of their campaign. McGregor believes that this mental toughness, combined with the experience of a squad that has won virtually every domestic trophy available, will be decisive in the final stretch.
Looking ahead, McGregor stressed the importance of maintaining focus and momentum. "We have to stay disciplined, keep working hard in training, and keep the belief that we can win each game," he said. "If we do that, the title is within reach." Beyond the league, Celtic are also competing in two domestic cup competitions, with a final already secured and another on the horizon.
McGregor highlighted the added motivation that cup runs provide, noting that they offer extra opportunities to test the squad’s depth and keep the winning mentality alive. In summary, Callum McGregor’s message to fans and pundits alike is clear: Celtic have the edge, the character, and the hunger to challenge for the Scottish Premiership crown, and he remains fully committed to the club that shaped his entire footballing life.
The upcoming fixtures will be a true test of the team’s resolve, and the captain is confident that the Hoops can rise to the occasion and finish the season with the trophies they deserve.