In a move that has rocked the NRL community, Penrith Panthers head coach Ivan Cleary has reportedly expressed a strong desire to walk away from his current role, following a lucrative and unexpected offer that could completely alter the course of his career.
Sources close to the situation say Cleary was approached by a powerful international rugby league franchise rumored to be a cashed-up English Super League club with a multi-million-dollar deal that includes full control over player recruitment, coaching staff, and a long-term vision centered entirely around his leadership. The deal, said to be worth over $6 million across four years, is one of the most tempting offers ever extended to a coach in either hemisphere.
In a closed-door meeting, Cleary reportedly told Panthers officials, “I want to leave. This is more than just a job offer it’s a new chapter, a challenge that I’m seriously considering.”
The statement, which has since leaked, sent shockwaves through the club and fan base. After building one of the NRL’s most successful dynasties in recent years including multiple Premierships and developing superstars like his son Nathan Cleary Ivan’s sudden openness to departure has raised questions about his future and the long-term direction of the Panthers.
While nothing has been officially confirmed, insiders say Cleary is torn between loyalty to the Panthers and the allure of an entirely new environment where he can leave his mark globally.
“He’s always been about the challenge,” a former colleague noted. “When you’ve built what he’s built at Penrith, it’s natural to start wondering what’s next.”
Panthers CEO Matt Cameron released a brief statement saying, “We are aware of the situation and are currently in discussions with Ivan. We value his commitment to the club and hope to continue our successful journey together.”
Fans are divided. While many understand Cleary’s desire to grow professionally, others feel blindsided, especially given the team’s current success and stability.
“After everything he’s built here, it’s hard to imagine the Panthers without him,” one supporter wrote on social media. “But if it’s time for him to go, we wish him nothing but the best.”
As speculation continues to swirl, one thing remains clear: Ivan Cleary’s decision, whatever it may be, will have ripple effects far beyond Penrith. Whether he stays or takes the leap, this is shaping up to be one of the most dramatic coaching shifts in modern NRL history.
Be the first to comment