Celtic legend Danny McGrain opens up about Alzheimer’s battle
From a celebrated full‑back who lifted seven league titles to a 76‑year‑old now confronting Alzheimer’s disease, Celtic legend Danny McGrain’s story spans triumph and personal trial, announced on 15 September 2026. The club confirmed yesterday that it has been in close contact with his family and will support him through the journey.
The announcement was reported by CALUM CROWE, SCOTTISH DEPUTY CHIEF SPORTS WRITER.
A glittering playing career
McGrain featured in 663 competitive matches for Celtic between 1970 and 1987. During that spell he collected seven league championships, five Scottish Cups and two Scottish League Cups. He also earned 62 caps for Scotland, cementing his reputation as one of the era’s finest right‑backs.
Experts and former teammates have long hailed him as perhaps the best full‑back of his generation, with many naming him the finest right‑back in world football during the 1970s.
Beyond the pitch, McGrain has remained a constant presence at Celtic, serving as a club ambassador, supporting charitable initiatives and undertaking coaching duties. He has also contributed to the Youth Development Programme via Celtic Pools and regularly hosts hospitality at Celtic Park, often greeting fans as the club’s head ambassador.
Club’s response to diagnosis
Celtic issued a statement on Tuesday lunchtime confirming McGrain’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis and saying the Parkhead side has been in close contact with his family since the news broke. The club stressed that McGrain is managing the condition privately but remains in good spirits.
His wife Laraine wrote, ‘Danny received this diagnosis some time ago, and as time has moved on, we felt it was right to be open and clear.’ She added, ‘Danny has always loved helping supporters – from hospital visits to charity events – and as that becomes more difficult, we wanted to explain his situation with honesty and the care the Celtic Family has always shown us.’
Celtic’s statement added that Danny continues to manage the diagnosis privately with his family, enjoys time with loved ones, follows the game and stays close to the club he holds dear.
Chief executive Michael Nicholson said, ‘When we talk about Celtic legends, Danny will always be right at the top of that list. He is a true great of the game and we are deeply grateful for everything he has given to Celtic and to the people around him.’
The juxtaposition of McGrain’s storied career and his current health battle underscores how his legacy endures, while Celtic’s unwavering support illustrates the club’s commitment to its legends as they face life’s toughest challenges in the sport community.