Kasper Schmeichel has expressed his desire to attain the unique milestone of 1,000 professional games as he prepares for another season with Celtic. The seasoned Danish custodian, who has made 903 career appearances for 12 clubs, shows no signs of slowing down as he prepares for the 2025/26 season.
The 39-year-old joined the Hoops last summer and has had an excellent season between the pipes. While Celtic were unable to win the Scottish Cup final and were eliminated from the Champions League, Schmeichel believes the season set excellent foundations for the club’s future.
Despite being in the latter stages of his career, Schmeichel has maintained high standards and is still one of the most vocal and prominent players in the locker room. His professionalism and drive to continue competing at the highest level made him a key member of Brendan Rodgers’ side last season.
With another season approaching and a century more games ahead, the goalkeeper is relishing the challenge and pressure that comes with playing for a team of Celtic’s stature.
He told RecordSport, “Reaching 1,000 games would be wonderful – a remarkable milestone few people attain. “I see no limitations, only opportunities.” I enjoy what I do, look forward to training and matches, and live in the moment.
I don’t make long-term plans, but I hope to continue playing for years until a catastrophic injury prevents me from doing so.
“This was one of the best seasons of my career. A new standard has been established. We lost the cup final against Aberdeen and were eliminated from the Champions League by Bayern, despite having chances to win.
“The mood in the changing room at the Allianz demonstrated our maturity and improvement.
“Joining Celtic was the right move – I wanted pressure and a big, traditional club, and that’s exactly what I got.”
Schmeichel’s comments demonstrate why he has survived so long in the game. Even after nearly 1,000 matches, his will to continue playing has not waned, and his good performance this season demonstrates that he still has much to contribute.
Celtic will look to Schmeichel to remain cool in the back and provide advice in the locker room. With younger players stepping up across the pitch, his expertise could be critical as the Hoops attempt to go forward next season.
This summer, Brendan Rodgers and his staff can form the squad around experienced leaders like Schmeichel. Now that he’s made his intentions known, the Dane appears to be a vital part of Celtic’s plans for next season.
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