Nathan Cleary has addressed the biggest question surrounding his future, revealing why he still isn’t ready to walk away from the NRL despite ongoing speculation he could eventually move to England to be closer to girlfriend Mary Fowler.
The Penrith superstar says he still has “unfinished business” in rugby league, even after adding another State of Origin triumph to an already remarkable résumé.
Cleary’s future has become one of the biggest talking points in the game.
The four-time premiership-winning halfback is contracted with the Panthers until the end of 2027, while Fowler remains committed to Manchester City, where she has previously indicated she has no plans to return to Australia to play club football in the foreseeable future.
NRL MATCH CENTRE: View stats, odds, betting insights, team lists and tips here
THIRSTY? Get your alcohol DELIVERED & watch the NRL with our friends at Liqourland here
Speaking to Nine, Cleary insisted his passion for rugby league remains stronger than ever.
“If anything, that drive is probably growing even more.”
He explained that despite achieving so much during his career, he still believes his best football could be ahead of him.
“I feel like I can still get so much better.”
“When you’re able to enjoy some success, it’s an addictive feeling, and you just want more of it.”
The comments will come as welcome news for Panthers fans.
After leading New South Wales to a State of Origin series victory and claiming the Wally Lewis Medal as player of the series, many believed Cleary had little left to achieve in Australian rugby league.
Instead, the 28-year-old says he remains driven by the challenge of continuing to improve.
“I’ve always said rugby league is my passion. I’ve loved it for as long as I can remember, so it’s always going to be life for me.”
That doesn’t mean speculation about his long-term future is disappearing.
With his current contract expiring after the 2027 season, Cleary acknowledged he will eventually need to make a decision.
“That’s something I’ll think about over the next couple of weeks.”
Any move overseas is widely expected to centre on England.
Fowler continues to build her career with Manchester City, and former NSW great Andrew Johns recently suggested Cleary may only consider leaving Australia after “owning” an Origin series—a milestone many believe he achieved this year.
For now, however, Cleary’s focus remains firmly on Penrith.
The Panthers are chasing a fifth premiership in six seasons before Cleary is expected to lead Australia at the Rugby League World Cup later this year.
While questions about England and Fowler will continue to follow him, Cleary has made one thing clear.
His love for rugby league—and the feeling that there is still more to accomplish—is the biggest reason he isn’t ready to leave the NRL just yet.
NRL MATCH CENTRE: View stats, odds, betting insights, team lists and tips here
THIRSTY? Get your alcohol DELIVERED & watch the NRL with our friends at Liqourland here
