As the 2025 NRL pre-season approaches, Parramatta Eels fans are experiencing a wave of emotions after the club’s latest roster update. The update has revealed both exciting and heartbreaking news, leaving supporters grappling with mixed feelings ahead of the new season.
One of the most significant talking points in the comprehensive list update is the departure of several key players who have been integral to the club’s success in recent years. Among the biggest shocks was the announcement that fan-favorite Clint Gutherson, the Eels’ captain, would be taking on a new role in a different NRL club. Gutherson has been a loyal servant to the club, and his exit marks the end of an era. His leadership and skill in the backline have been pivotal to the Eels’ resurgence over the past few seasons, making his departure a hard pill to swallow for the passionate fanbase.
Another departure that has left fans teary-eyed is Reed Mahoney, a tough, no-nonsense hooker who had become a symbol of the club’s gritty and relentless playing style. Mahoney’s work ethic and defensive prowess were unmatched, and his emotional exit is a loss that is felt deeply by supporters. The Eels will now have to find a way to fill the void left by Mahoney, whose absence will be sorely missed both on and off the field.
In addition to these high-profile departures, the update also confirmed that Ryan Matterson, a powerful forward who has played a crucial role in the Eels’ forward pack, would be moving on as well. Matterson’s decision to leave, while bittersweet for fans, is part of the natural turnover that many NRL clubs experience. His strong defensive skills and ability to create attacking opportunities were invaluable to Parramatta, but now the team will need to adjust and adapt without his presence.
However, while the departures have understandably left many fans feeling emotional, the list update also brought some much-needed relief and optimism. The Eels have managed to secure the signings of several exciting new talents, offering a glimmer of hope for the future. One such player is Jahream Bula, a promising young fullback who has been turning heads in the NSW Cup. Bula’s speed, agility, and playmaking ability have caught the attention of many, and he could be a key figure for the Eels in the years to come.
In addition to Bula, Jesse Ramien, a dynamic center with a sharp attacking game, has been brought in to bolster the club’s backline. His physicality and ability to break through defensive lines could add a new dimension to Parramatta’s attack in 2025, making him one of the signings to watch.
Furthermore, the Eels have made significant moves to strengthen their forward pack. They’ve secured Tevita Pangai Jr., a powerful and aggressive forward with a knack for disrupting opposition attacks. Pangai’s arrival adds depth to an already solid forward pack and provides the Eels with more options in the middle of the field.
Although the changes to the roster have left Parramatta Eels fans in tears over the loss of some beloved players, the club’s commitment to building a competitive team for the future is evident. The 2025 season will undoubtedly bring new challenges, but the arrival of fresh talent and the development of the next generation of Eels stars have injected a renewed sense of hope among supporters.
As the team prepares for pre-season training, there’s an undercurrent of excitement mixed with sadness. Fans know that it won’t be the same without their old heroes, but they are ready to embrace the next chapter in the club’s storied history. The Eels are on the verge of a new era, and while the tears flow for the departing players, there’s a sense of anticipation for what’s to come.
