EMOTIONAL SHIFT: Broncos Star Gehamat Shibasaki Makes Unexpected Move That Raises Questions About His Future Under Coach Michael Maguire
A cloud of uncertainty has settled over Red Hill following a surprising off-field move from Brisbane Broncos centre Gehamat Shibasaki—one that’s left fans speculating about potential tension under new head coach Michael Maguire. Though no official rift has been confirmed, the 26-year-old’s recent decision to distance himself from the club’s inner circle has ignited growing concerns about where his future lies within the Broncos setup.
Shibasaki, once viewed as a promising mainstay for the Broncos’ backline, has had a turbulent journey in and out of the NRL spotlight. After stints with the Cowboys and Knights, his return to Brisbane was seen as a chance at redemption. But despite flashes of brilliance, the combination of inconsistent game time and strategic shifts under Maguire’s regime has left his long-term role up in the air.
A Personal Decision Sparks Club-Wide Buzz
In the past week, reports surfaced that Shibasaki has quietly moved out of his long-time Brisbane residence and taken up temporary living arrangements outside the city—far from the Broncos’ tightly knit player hub. While the club has remained silent on the matter, those close to the player have hinted that the move may be more than just logistical.
“Gehamat’s not unhappy,” a source close to him said. “But it’s no secret he’s been feeling out of step with how things are evolving at the club.”
It’s a subtle but emotionally charged decision—one that could be interpreted as a response to growing frustration with his role, or even a sign that the centre is preparing for a fresh start elsewhere.
Maguire’s Arrival and Shibasaki’s Role Uncertain
Since Michael Maguire officially took over from Kevin Walters, the Broncos have undergone a significant cultural and tactical reset. Known for his hard-edged discipline and defence-first mentality, Maguire has brought a no-nonsense approach—one that’s already reshaped the club’s training culture.
While many players have embraced the challenge, not all have found their place in the new order. Shibasaki, an athletic ball-runner with natural flair, has at times looked out of sync with Maguire’s rigid structure.
“He’s a confidence player,” said a former teammate. “You give him a role and trust, and he’ll thrive. But when he feels boxed in, you see him start to fade.”
Though Shibasaki has yet to speak publicly about the situation, his on-field minutes have declined, and he was recently left out of the 17-man squad for back-to-back matches—another move that hasn’t gone unnoticed by supporters.
Fans Divided Over Shibasaki’s Future
The news of his off-field relocation has divided Broncos fans. Some see it as a warning sign that the talented centre may be preparing for an early exit, whether by release, transfer, or even a code switch.
“I’ve always rated Shibasaki,” one fan wrote online. “But it feels like he’s slipping through the cracks. If we don’t use him, someone else will.”
Others, however, believe it’s premature to assume there’s any breakdown between player and coach.
“Maybe he just wants a bit of peace,” another fan posted. “Not every move is about footy. But yeah, it’s a weird time for it, especially with the team trying to lock down its backline.”
Shibasaki’s Journey: Promise, Pressure, and a Need for Clarity
Gehamat Shibasaki’s rugby league journey has been anything but straightforward. Debuting in 2018, he was quickly touted as one of Queensland’s most exciting prospects—a powerful runner with sharp instincts and defensive versatility.
But a combination of injuries, club changes, and shifting coaching philosophies stalled his momentum. His return to the Broncos was supposed to mark a homecoming of sorts—a chance to rekindle form and re-establish himself as a reliable NRL-calibre centre.
And for a time, that spark seemed to return. But in 2025, amidst the club’s internal reset and a new head coach with a specific blueprint, Shibasaki’s place in the pecking order has become increasingly uncertain.
The Bigger Picture: What Does This Mean for the Broncos?
Coach Michael Maguire has made it clear: no one is safe, and every player must earn their spot. While this mantra has injected new intensity into training and lifted standards, it’s also unsettled some of the squad’s fringe and developing players.
Shibasaki’s situation appears to reflect this dynamic. On talent alone, he remains a valuable asset—but without clarity on how or where he fits into Maguire’s long-term plans, the emotional toll is becoming visible.
If the move out of Brisbane is indeed symbolic of deeper unease, the Broncos may face yet another tough decision: hold onto a player who may feel undervalued, or release him to explore opportunities that align better with his identity as a footballer.
What Comes Next?
With the season approaching its critical midpoint, the clock is ticking. Shibasaki’s contract runs through the end of the year, and club officials have been tight-lipped about any talks of extension or trade.
Maguire, known for being direct, is expected to address the matter internally. But for now, there’s no official indication of what the future holds. What’s clear, however, is that fans, teammates, and the broader rugby league community will be watching closely.
Can the relationship between Shibasaki and Maguire be repaired? Is this simply a mental refresh, or does it hint at a deeper disconnect?
A Fork in the Road
For Gehamat Shibasaki, this may be the most pivotal stretch of his career. At 26, he still has plenty to offer—but only if he’s given a system and a coach that allow him to play with the freedom and fire that made him a rising star in the first place.
If his recent move is any indication, he’s searching for clarity—not just as a player, but as a person.
And for the Broncos, who have worked so hard to rebuild their identity, the next few weeks may reveal whether one of their most promising talents remains part of that future—or quietly prepares to walk away.
