James Forrest has opened up about his future at Celtic, with his current deal set to expire at the end of the 2025/26 season.
The 34-year-old winger, now in his 17th senior campaign at the club, has been a one-club man since breaking into the first team in 2010. Having lifted 26 major honours and established himself as Celtic’s most decorated player, Forrest’s status among the club’s modern greats is undisputed.
Despite his legendary standing, Forrest admits the thought of life after football is beginning to creep in. He’s still determined to make a meaningful contribution on the pitch this season, but is under no illusions about what comes next.
While no formal talks over a contract extension appear to have taken place yet, Forrest’s comments suggest a man aware of his career entering its final stretch, yet still fully committed to the cause.
He said: (STV Sport), “I think every player is different. I think it’s been good for me over the years and the club has always just worked well.
“But obviously I’m getting older and I really just want to enjoy it, keep working hard and keep trying to contribute to the team when I can
“When that discussion comes. I honestly just want to keep trying to enjoy every day.
“Obviously I’ve loved it here. I’ve given everything I’ve got to Celtic and I want to continue to do that.
“It’s been a really good fit up to now and I’m just going to keep enjoying it while it lasts.
“I have thought about it a wee bit. I left school at 15, 16 and that’s all you have ever done and all you’ve ever known.
“So I want to keep playing for as long as I can, but yeah, it’s scary.
“I’ve played with players who have retired and different people go down different paths once they finish but I don’t really know what I’ll definitely do after but I think it’s scary because it’s what I’ve done for 20-plus years and it’s been unbelievable, it’s been really really good.
“I have given everything to Celtic and I will continue to do that until my contract is up and they might shove me out the door anyway, so we will see what happens.”
Forrest’s attitude reflects the professionalism that has marked his entire career. There’s no grand exit plan or farewell tour, just a continued desire to contribute while he still can.
His role in the squad may have changed, with younger wingers now taking on greater responsibility, but Forrest remains a dependable option for Brendan Rodgers and a valuable presence in the dressing room.
Whether he plays on beyond this season or not, Forrest’s legacy at Celtic is secure. The question now is whether there’s one more chapter to be written in the green and white.
Either way, it’s clear Forrest is at peace with whatever the future brings, so long as he continues to enjoy the game, and the club, that has defined his life.
