Nathan Cleary’s Future in Question
Nathan Cleary, the star halfback for the Penrith Panthers, is at a pivotal point in his career. With his contract set to expire at the end of 2027, speculation about his future has been growing. Andrew Johns, a former rugby league legend, believes that if Cleary dominates the State of Origin arena for New South Wales this year, he might consider leaving the NRL altogether.
Johns suggests that Cleary could move to England or Europe to be closer to his girlfriend, Mary Fowler, a Matildas star who plays for Manchester City. However, this move would only happen if Cleary achieves success in the State of Origin series. Currently, Cleary has won four premierships with the Panthers and has been part of World Cup victories for Australia. Despite his achievements, he hasn’t yet fully established himself in the Origin arena.
“I can only see him being a one-club man (in the NRL),” Johns said on the ‘Immortal Behaviour’ podcast. “I think there would be more interest to go to England. Whether there’s an option in rugby union in Europe, or playing in the Super League over there.”
Corey Parker, a Broncos legend, echoed similar sentiments on SEN radio. He mentioned reports that an English club has unofficially offered Cleary £2 million per season, which is approximately $3.7 million Australian. Parker believes that with Ivan Cleary stepping down as Panthers coach at the end of 2027, it might be the end of Cleary’s tenure with the team.
“There is a rumour circulating that Nathan is potentially being offered £2 million a year to play in the Super League over in the UK. His partner Mary Fowler plays there, they are currently long-distance so maybe he takes that up,” Parker said.
Matty Johns also weighed in on the topic, pointing out that NRL bosses are keen to grow the game internationally and enhance the English product. He highlighted that Mary Fowler, Cleary’s partner, plays for Manchester City, making the move to England even more appealing.
“With the NRL looking to push the game into London next year, they’re talking about starting the season in London as well as Vegas. It might be in the NRL’s interest to have Nathan Cleary go to the London Broncos,” Matty said.
Possible Moves and Opportunities
If Cleary does decide to leave the NRL, there are several potential options for him. One possibility is joining a Super League team in England. Warrington Wolves owner Simon Moran has reportedly shown interest in securing Cleary’s services. Another option could be moving to rugby union in Europe, where there is growing interest in the sport.
The idea of Cleary playing in the Super League has also gained traction. The English Super League is looking to expand its reach and attract top talent from the NRL. With the NRL’s plans to start the season in London, it makes sense for the league to bring in high-profile players like Cleary.
The Role of Mary Fowler
Mary Fowler’s presence in England is a significant factor in Cleary’s potential move. As a Matildas player, she is based in Manchester, which makes it easier for Cleary to be close to her. The couple has been in a long-distance relationship, and a move to England would allow them to be together more often.
This connection between Cleary and Fowler adds another layer to the speculation about his future. If he does decide to move, it would not just be a professional decision but also a personal one.
Conclusion
As the 2027 season approaches, the future of Nathan Cleary remains uncertain. While he has had a successful career with the Penrith Panthers, the possibility of a move to England or Europe is becoming increasingly plausible. With the support of his girlfriend and the potential opportunities in the Super League, Cleary may soon find himself in a new chapter of his career.
