In a massive boost for the Penrith Panthers and their supporters, Nathan Cleary has officially signed a four-year contract extension, ensuring he will remain at the club until the end of the 2028 season. The deal, which was finalized earlier this week, secures the future of one of the NRL’s brightest stars and cements his position as the cornerstone of Penrith’s dynasty for years to come.
Cleary, 26, has been a key figure in the Panthers’ remarkable success over the past few seasons, playing an instrumental role in guiding the team to back-to-back NRL Premierships in 2021 and 2022. His skill, vision, and leadership on the field have made him one of the best halfbacks in the world, and the new contract ensures that Penrith’s long-term plans will continue to revolve around him.
A Career Built on Excellence
Cleary’s journey with the Panthers has been nothing short of extraordinary. Having joined the club at a young age, Cleary quickly rose through the ranks, making his NRL debut in 2016 at just 18 years old. Since then, he has established himself as one of the best playmakers in the league, winning multiple Dally M Halfback of the Year awards and representing New South Wales in State of Origin. His composure, kicking game, and ability to control matches have earned him widespread recognition, and his leadership qualities have made him the natural leader of Penrith’s highly successful team.
In recent years, Cleary’s connection with coach Ivan Cleary and key players such as Isaah Yeo, Jarome Luai, and Brian To’o has been integral to Penrith’s dominance. The team’s cohesive play and relentless defensive pressure have been hallmarks of their success, with Cleary at the helm orchestrating everything from the halfback position.
A Commitment to Penrith’s Future
The signing of a long-term deal with the Panthers signifies Cleary’s desire to continue building on his legacy with the club. Despite numerous rumours linking him to rival clubs and speculation about his future, Cleary has remained steadfast in his commitment to Penrith, making it clear that he values the culture, the team, and the direction the club is heading in.
In a statement following the announcement, Cleary expressed his excitement about the future. “Penrith is home to me, and I couldn’t imagine playing anywhere else,” he said. “This club has given me everything, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue working with the amazing group of players, coaches, and staff here. We’ve had a lot of success, but we know there’s more to come. I’m looking forward to continuing the journey and achieving even more with this team.”
The extension also shows the Panthers’ ambition to retain their core group of players and remain a dominant force in the NRL for the foreseeable future. With Cleary locked in until 2028, the club can focus on building around him, ensuring stability and continuity at the most important position on the field.
A Significant Move for the Panthers
The decision to secure Cleary for the long term is a major coup for Penrith, as the halfback market in the NRL has become increasingly competitive. Cleary’s commitment ensures that the Panthers are in a strong position to defend their titles and continue competing at the highest level. It also sends a message to other clubs that Penrith is serious about keeping their best players and building a legacy that will last beyond the current success.
Cleary’s signing is expected to have a ripple effect on Penrith’s recruitment strategy, as the club now looks to add further depth and talent to complement its existing stars. With Cleary locked in as the face of the franchise, the Panthers are well-positioned to remain a powerhouse in the NRL for many years to come.
Looking Ahead
For Penrith fans, the news of Cleary’s extension is a reason to celebrate, knowing that the heart of the team will continue to be led by one of the league’s finest players. With Cleary at the helm, the Panthers are well-placed to challenge for more premierships and solidify their place as one of the dominant teams of the modern NRL era.
As the 2024 season progresses, Cleary’s extended commitment will undoubtedly give Penrith the confidence and stability needed to continue their pursuit of success. For now, the focus is on maintaining their dynasty, with Cleary leading the way and inspiring the next generation of Panthers players to follow in his footsteps.
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