**”I’M LEAVING”: Ivan Cleary Explains Why Panthers Star Player is Leaving**
In a heartfelt announcement that has shocked fans and players alike, Penrith Panthers head coach Ivan Cleary has opened up about the departure of one of the club’s star players. In a recent press conference, Cleary explained the reasons behind the player’s decision to leave the club, offering insights into both the emotional and professional factors that led to the split.
Cleary, who has been the architect of the Panthers’ recent dominance in the NRL, described the decision as “extremely difficult” for both the player and the club. While he declined to name the player in the initial statement, it was widely reported that the star in question is a long-standing member of the Panthers’ core group, someone instrumental in the team’s multiple premierships in recent seasons.
The coach revealed that the player’s departure comes down to a combination of personal and career-related reasons. “Sometimes players need a fresh challenge, and after much deliberation, this player has decided that it’s time for them to take the next step in their career,” Cleary explained. He acknowledged the strong emotional connection between the player and the club, citing the years of success and camaraderie they’ve shared. “It’s never easy to lose someone who has been so integral to our journey, but we respect their decision,” Cleary added.
Speculation surrounding the player’s future has been rife in recent months, with many pointing to offers from rival clubs as a potential factor. Cleary confirmed that the decision wasn’t solely financial but also tied to the player’s desire for a new environment, suggesting that the player felt they had achieved everything they could at Penrith. “It’s not always about money or contract terms. Sometimes, players just feel that they’ve reached a point where they need a new challenge. This is one of those cases,” he said.
Cleary also took the opportunity to assure fans that the club would continue to build on its strong foundation. “We have a deep roster, and while it’s always tough to lose a star player, the system we’ve built here is bigger than any one individual,” he said. “We’ll continue to be a strong team.”
While the departure has left a significant gap in the Panthers’ lineup, Cleary’s message was clear: Penrith will continue to strive for excellence, even in the face of change. Fans are now left to wonder who will step up to fill the void left by one of the club’s most influential players.
