Parramatta rocked as third player from grand final team reportedly requests immediate release…
Parramatta Rocked as Third Player from Grand Final Team Reportedly Requests Immediate Release
In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the NRL community, the Parramatta Eels are facing a potential roster crisis as a third key player from their 2022 grand final team has reportedly requested an immediate release from the club.
Following the departures and transfer drama surrounding some of their top-tier talent, it’s now being reported that star forward Shaun Lane has asked the Eels’ management to be let go before the end of his contract. Lane’s reported request comes just weeks after fellow teammates Ryan Matterson and Junior Paulo were also linked to early exits or controversial negotiations, placing immense pressure on head coach Brad Arthur and the Eels’ front office.
Trouble Brewing in Parramatta
The Eels, who have struggled to find consistent form in 2025 after missing the top eight last season, now face deeper problems as off-field instability threatens to derail any remaining hopes of a late-season finals push.
The potential departure of Lane — a towering second-rower known for his offloading ability and defensive work rate — would further weaken a forward pack already battered by injury and inconsistency. While the club has yet to confirm the release request, sources close to the situation say Lane is frustrated with the direction of the club and is eager to explore opportunities elsewhere, including a possible move to the Super League or a rival NRL side.
A Pattern of Discontent?
If confirmed, Lane’s release request would mark the third such move from a member of the Eels’ 2022 grand final squad in recent weeks. Earlier this year, Ryan Matterson sparked controversy after he reportedly reignited interest in a switch to the Dolphins, citing lack of faith in the Eels’ long-term plans. Around the same time, whispers began swirling around Junior Paulo, who has since denied any intent to leave — but sources suggest internal conversations with other clubs have taken place.
The situation has left many fans questioning what is happening behind the scenes at the club. Once seen as a rising powerhouse with a strong developmental pathway and premiership potential, Parramatta now finds itself at a crossroads, with players seemingly disillusioned and management under increasing fire.
Brad Arthur Under Pressure
Head coach Brad Arthur, the longest-serving coach in the club’s recent history, has remained publicly supportive of his squad, but the heat is rising. Critics have pointed to the club’s poor handling of player retention, lack of tactical evolution, and now — apparent morale issues within the camp.
“The players look lost, uninspired — and now they want out,” said one former player turned commentator. “There’s clearly a deeper issue, whether it’s cultural, leadership-based, or just a club running out of steam. Either way, it’s alarming.”
Arthur’s contract is due to be reviewed at the end of the season, but mounting player unrest may force the club’s board to act sooner.
Fans Voice Their Frustration
On social media and fan forums, frustration is bubbling over. Loyal Eels supporters, who have waited decades for a premiership, feel they’re witnessing a slow unraveling of the team that came within one win of glory in 2022.
“Three grand final boys possibly gone in a single season — what’s going on??” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). Another added, “We had the core to build a dynasty. Now we’re tearing it down from the inside.”
Club membership numbers reportedly dipped in the first half of the 2025 season, and these latest developments are unlikely to inspire a turnaround.
What Comes Next?
If Lane’s release is granted, the Eels will be forced to look for a mid-season replacement — a near-impossible task given the limited player movement window and their already-tight salary cap. There’s talk of promoting younger players from their NSW Cup squad or making a late push for an overseas signing to fill the gap.
However, without clear leadership and strategic direction, those stop-gap measures may not be enough to steady the ship.
As for Lane, his management has declined to comment on the speculation but is expected to issue a formal statement in the coming days. Insiders suggest a move to the UK Super League could be the most likely option, with at least two clubs reportedly in contact.
A Club at the Crossroads
Parramatta’s future — both in the short and long term — now hangs in the balance. While the NRL is no stranger to player movement and contract reshuffling, the timing and number of reported release requests out of the Eels’ camp is highly unusual and signals deeper systemic issues.
The Eels board is reportedly set to meet later this week to address the growing crisis, with calls for a full internal review growing louder.
The coming days could be crucial in determining not only Shaun Lane’s future — but the fate of a club once tipped to be on the cusp of NRL greatness.
Key Takeaways:
Shaun Lane becomes the third Parramatta Eels grand final player to reportedly request release in 2025.
Ryan Matterson and Junior Paulo have also been linked to early exits.
Fans and analysts point to deeper cultural and leadership issues within the club.
Coach Brad Arthur’s position may come under renewed scrutiny.
A full club review may be imminent as the Eels face growing uncertainty.
Stay tuned as the situation develops.
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