Hugo Savala is backing himself to break into the Sydney Roosters starting lineup again, with the 23-year-old preparing to re-sign with the Bondi club even though he may have to battle superstar veteran Daly Cherry-Evans for the jersey.
There had originally been rumours that Savala was looking for an exit from the tricolours, mainly because he backs himself as an NRL-level talent and wants to be playing higher than NSW Cup as soon as possible.
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Many, this Sporting Base writer included, had expected that to be away from Sydney, but Savala has had different ideas — with “DCE” only signed with the Roosters through to December next year, he clearly sees himself as the long-term successor.
There’s no guarantee that Trent Robinson will even favour Cherry-Evans over Savala either; the 23-year-old incumbent halfback had a strong 2025 and may link well with the club’s leading halves star, Sam Walker.
Should things not work out for Savala either, he’s only re-signed to 2028 now. He’ll still be in his mid-20s then and could explore other options.
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Looking closer, there’s also been some whispers that Savala may take up a loan deal through 2026 before coming back to prove he belongs in Sydney for 2027. That would mean Robinson can use Sam Walker and DCE together in the next campaign and not risk isolating Savala long-term
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Should the 23-year-old take that path, he’d field offers from South Sydney and — maybe ironically — Manly. St George Illawarra had been interested for a spell, but believe they’ve found a proper no.7 in Daniel Atkinson.
Perth and North Queensland had been interested, too, though the latter is the only one that would want to have him in ‘26; the Bears don’t join until 2027.
Savala ended his breakout 2025 campaign with four tries and 10 try assists.
