Kasper Schmeichel has made it clear he has no intention of hanging up his gloves anytime soon, telling Celtic fans he’s “far from done” as he enters his second season at the club.
The 39-year-old goalkeeper, who joined the Hoops last summer and played a vital role in the club’s domestic double, is now in the final year of his contract. Despite being one of the oldest players in the squad, Schmeichel shows no signs of slowing down — and certainly isn’t thinking about retirement.
“That’s not my mindset. I haven’t done everything. There’s a lot still to accomplish,” the Dane said, when asked if the thought of retiring had crossed his mind.
“In all honesty, I never think like that. I’ve never been the type of guy to think in restrictions or limitations or anything like that. At the moment, I’m just loving playing football. I love being part of a club where the culture is so driven by winning.
“That really motivates me every single day to get up to it, to make sure that we uphold those standards and keep striving for more.”
Schmeichel’s hunger and commitment to the cause were clear across last season. He provided a steady presence between the sticks and was instrumental in Celtic’s title charge and League Cup triumph. But the veteran knows competition is rising.
Finnish understudy Viljami Sinisalo impressed late last season when Schmeichel was sidelined, and could provide a stiffer challenge for the number one spot this time around.
Still, the former Leicester and Nice keeper remains focused on the now, not the finish line.
“I’m not the type of person to say that I’m going to do this or going to do that. I take everything as it comes. At this stage of my career, nothing’s ever guaranteed. It never is at any point, but one injury can end your career at this stage.
“I think for me, it’s all about being here, contributing, enjoying every single minute. The only way I do that is by being part of a winning team.”
Celtic will need Schmeichel at his best with a huge Champions League playoff tie looming at the end of August. The Hoops are aiming to return to the league phase under Brendan Rodgers, and the veteran stopper’s experience could prove crucial.
Whether he plays into his 40s or not, Schmeichel’s focus remains clear: win more, enjoy every moment, and help Celtic reach new heights.
