Nathan Cleary Speaks Out on His Future, Reaffirms Commitment to Rugby League and the Penrith Panther
Amid a flurry of speculation surrounding his next career move, Penrith Panthers and New South Wales Blues star Nathan Cleary has officially addressed growing rumors about a potential code switch to rugby union. The 27-year-old halfback, widely regarded as one of the top playmakers in the NRL, has dismissed suggestions that he’s contemplating a departure from rugby league anytime soon.
Cleary’s future has sparked significant conversation both in Australia and overseas. Recently, rumors began swirling once again—this time linking him with a move not only to England’s Super League but also to rugby union. As Australia’s top league talents increasingly become targets for high-profile union clubs both at home and abroad, Cleary’s name naturally surfaced in the rumor mill. However, he has now made it clear that he is not interested in entertaining such a switch—at least not for the foreseeable future.
In a recent interview with NewsWire, Cleary emphasized that his focus remains firmly on excelling in rugby league and making the most of the opportunities ahead of him in the sport he has long loved and devoted himself to.
> “I think I’ve got enough challenges in front of me playing rugby league,” Cleary stated candidly.
It’s a statement that leaves little doubt about where his priorities lie. While the idea of changing codes might be tempting to some players seeking new experiences or financial opportunities, Cleary appears laser-focused on refining his game and achieving even more in rugby league.
> “I feel like I want to squeeze the most out of my rugby league potential as I can,” he continued.
The Panthers playmaker has invested years of work and sacrifice into reaching the peak of his sport, and he believes he is just now entering the prime years of his career. For Cleary, now is not the time to divert his energy elsewhere. Instead, he is intent on capitalizing on his form and maximizing his contributions in rugby league, both for Penrith and New South Wales.
> “I’ve put so much into it and it’s been my passion for so long,” he explained. “To then get to this stage where I feel like I’m probably playing my best footy and in the best position to play my best footy in the coming years—I don’t want to waste that.”
These remarks serve as a powerful reminder of Cleary’s dedication to his craft and his ambition to build on an already impressive legacy in league. He doesn’t just want to continue playing—he wants to keep evolving, leading, and winning.
Part of that ongoing challenge lies in his deep connection to the Penrith Panthers. Having been a part of one of the most dominant eras in club history, Cleary is not content to simply rest on past glories. The start of the current season presented new hurdles for the Panthers, and for Cleary, that adversity has become a fresh source of inspiration.
> “Going back to Penrith and the way we started the year, that’s a challenge in itself and I’ve found motivation in that,” he said. “You can’t take winning for granted.”
Cleary’s reference to the team’s rocky start to the season highlights the mindset that has fueled his success. Where others might view a dip in form or mounting pressure as discouraging, Cleary sees it as a new opportunity to grow and test himself. His desire to lead Penrith back to their peak underlines his leadership qualities and unwavering commitment to the club’s future.
It’s also important to note that Cleary is still under contract with the Panthers for another two seasons. His current deal not only binds him to the club but also provides further evidence of his loyalty and long-term vision in rugby league.
While fans and pundits alike may continue to debate his potential in another code—perhaps fueled by his elite athleticism, tactical intelligence, and international appeal—Cleary himself is not buying into the distraction. As he prepares for Game Three of this year’s State of Origin series with New South Wales, his focus remains firmly locked on the present and the possibilities that still lie ahead in rugby league.
His decision to stay grounded in the league is not merely a career choice; it’s a personal one. Cleary’s passion for the game, and his understanding of how fleeting success can be, appears to anchor his every decision. Rather than chase headlines or hypothetical opportunities, the Panthers co-captain is focused on leaving no stone unturned in his pursuit of excellence within the NRL.
For a player of Cleary’s caliber—someone who has already achieved so much at such a young age—it might seem inevitable that he would one day consider testing himself in a different environment or under a different code. But for now, the idea of swapping rugby league for rugby union, or any other challenge outside the NRL, seems to be off the table.
Instead, Cleary’s message is crystal clear: he’s not done with rugby league—not even close. He sees unfinished business, untapped potential, and new heights yet to be reached. Whether it’s leading his state to Origin glory, helping Penrith return to their best form, or continuing to grow as a player and leader, Cleary is fully invested in the journey ahead.
In a time when sports careers are often marked by rapid changes and restless moves, Nathan Cleary’s decision to double down on his rugby league path is a testament to his character. It’s not just about loyalty to a club or a code—it’s about a deeper commitment to mastering a craft he has loved since childhood.
As fans speculate and rival clubs watch from afar, Cleary’s focus remains unshaken. Rugby league is still where his heart is—and where he plans to make his biggest mark.
