New Zealand Warriors

New Zealand Warriors grant player ‘request’ to leave club

by
Harry Lewis
June 11, 2026

Cameron George. Credit: Imago

New Zealand Warriors chief executive Cameron George has today confirmed one of the club’s newest recruits will leave the club at the end of the season.

It was revealed to Six Again yesterday that Morgan Gannon was seeking an early exit from the club, despite signing a three-year deal with the Warriors ahead of this season.

And today George confirmed the English forward has had his ‘request’ to leave the club at the season’s end granted, citing ‘personal reasons’ for the 22-year-old’s decision.

Gannon arrived at the Wahs with great potential, having made his debut for Leeds Rhinos at 17 and going on to play 73 games across a five-year period in Super League.

However, he has been used by coach Andrew Webster just once, starting at second row in the Round 3 victory over Newcastle Knights.

Morgan Gannon to leave Warriors

Morgan Gannon. Credit: Imago

Speaking on the decision to grant Gannon an early release, Geroge said: “It’s a tough decision for Morgan but he has our support.

“We appreciate having him with us and look forward to him finishing the year strongly.”

It remains to be seen if Gannon will play another game for the Warriors with first-grade chances limited – he has five appearances in New South Wales Cup so far.

Meanwhile back in the UK where Gannon has a strong reputation, the media are already linking him with multiple Super League clubs.

Gannon’s former boss and current Leeds Rhinos head coach Brad Arthur, who is known well in NRL circles, was questioned on a possible return to the club for Gannon in his weekly press conference yesterday.

“Look, we’re aware of his situation,” said Arthur. “I think at the moment it’s too early to make too many comments about it.

“I know it’s a personal issue with him at the moment. It’s better off leaving that out of the public.”

Whether Gannon returns to the Headingley club remains to be seen, but one thing is known for certain now, his short-term future is not in the NRL, as the Wahs get some extra cap space for 2027.

Though Gannon was not one of the highest earners, his exit may allow the club to squeeze off-contract stars Kurt Capewell and Te Maire Martin into their roster for next year.