Nathan Cleary Clarifies Future Plans Amid Coaching Change
Nathan Cleary, the star halfback for the Penrith Panthers, has made it clear that the appointment of his former teammate Peter Wallace as the club’s future head coach will not influence his decision on his playing future. The news comes after a surprising announcement that Cleary’s father, Ivan Cleary, will step down as Penrith’s head coach at the end of the 2027 season.
During a media appearance in Brisbane on Saturday evening, the 28-year-old addressed the upcoming coaching change and whether Wallace’s promotion might encourage him to stay with the Panthers. Cleary emphasized that his decision is still pending and will not be rushed.
“I was lucky enough to play alongside ‘Wal’ [Wallace]. He was someone I looked up to, and the way he played the game, the toughness, I have the utmost respect for him. I’m really happy for him,” Cleary said.
“But it doesn’t change my position. I’m still not ready to make that decision yet, and that won’t change over the next six to eight-week period. We’ll see how it goes.”
When asked about the appeal of playing under Wallace, Cleary acknowledged it could be a factor but stressed that it’s not a deciding factor just yet.
“It’s not something I’ve thought about too much, but potentially [it helps]. ‘Wal’ is the kind of guy anyone would like to play for,” Cleary said.
“He was someone I loved playing alongside … It’s obviously a pressing thing, which I understand, but it’s definitely a decision I won’t take lightly, and it won’t happen any time soon.”
There has been speculation about a potential move to England, which would allow Cleary to be closer to his partner, Matildas star Mary Fowler.
“Obviously I’ll have conversations with her given she’s my partner,” Cleary said.
“But it’s not something that I’ve done yet.”
Cleary also reflected on his father’s decision to step down, noting that it would bring a sense of relief for both Ivan and his wife Bec.
“I’m really happy for him, not only for him, but also mum (Bec). The women and wives often get forgotten in all of this,” he said.
“Dad has been a part of the NRL for 35 years now, and mum has had to ride the highs and lows and the rollercoaster with him.”
“For them to enjoy more of a stress-free life, hopefully, it’s really good.
“Dad has been holding on to it for a little while now, so to get it out there, I’m happy and I’m proud.
“I knew he didn’t want to coach forever. Him and mum wanted to enjoy a life where it didn’t revolve around the week-in, week-out season. I didn’t know when that was going to be.
“He wanted more than anything to let the people know who needed to know, ‘Wal’ in particular.
“To be honest, it [the decision] is probably a weight off his shoulders, and lets him focus on what’s ahead.”
Cleary will lead Penrith against last-placed St George Illawarra on Sunday night at Magic Round.
