“Warriors fan” – Nathan Cleary breaks silence on Wahs rumours

The big talking point this week has been around the future of the NRL’s biggest superstar – Nathan Cleary.

After producing a masterclass in this year’s Origin decider, Cleary has achieved all there is to in the game and attention has now turned to his next move.

The Panthers playmaker is contracted until the end of 2027 but is able to negotiate with rival clubs from November 1 this year.

Where he will end up in 2028 is a big cause for discussion and one of the club’s constantly mentioned is the New Zealand Warriors.

That’s because Cleary spent a chunk of his childhood in Auckland when his father Ivan was coaching at the Warriors between 2006 and 2011.

In fact, Cleary started playing rugby league for the first time while living in Auckland as a nine-year-old and still supports the Wahs from that time.

There is growing speculation that he will now return to finish his career where it started, with much of his junior rugby league development taking place in New Zealand.

It’s also noted that Nathan’s brother Jett is currently a Warriors player. Jett, 21, who is also a halfback, is playing NSW Cup at present and is pushing for an NRL debut.

While many would have thought this may attract Nathan back to the Kiwi club, especially given his roots and family involvement there, it appears that it is in fact the opposite.

That’s because in an interview with NewsWire, Cleary, who would be 30 by the 2028 season when he could potentially join the Warriors, has slammed the breaks on a reunion with his brother.

While refusing to completely rule out a return to Auckland and another reunion with former coach Andrew Webster, Cleary was reluctant to discuss his current contract status.

“I still don’t know (about my future),” said Cleary. “I’m still in the process of thinking it over. I’m not sure yet.

“I wasn’t born in Auckland, but I grew up a fair bit there and I will admit I was a Warriors fan growing up.

“But at the end of the day, even if that was an option, I’d be blocking my little brother’s pathway. I’m not too sure about that.

“I want to put a bit more thought into it. The last few weeks there has been a bit of a comedown from Origin, and I’ve been trying to get back into routine with the boys and get back into consistent training.

“That contract stuff will work itself out in the background.”