Christian Petracca, a superstar for the Melbourne Demons, has decided to continue with the team despite weeks of rumours about his future there.
However, it remains to be seen if he will stay there in the long run.
Despite having a contract that expires at the end of 2029, the dissatisfied 28-year-old midfielder had apparently been ready to investigate a move to another Victorian team this
He did, however, declare on Saturday that he was “committed” to playing for the Demons.
Since sustaining potentially fatal injuries during the King’s Birthday match in June, Petracca has been unable to play. He has previously voiced his dissatisfaction with the Demons’ standards and how they handled his injury.
In a statement made public by the team on Saturday night, Petracca said, “There has been a lot of speculation regarding my role at the Melbourne Football Club over the last few weeks.”
“This happened at the end-of-year assessment process, during which I expressed my concerns as a leader and my desire for our team, playing group, and supporters to improve.
“To make sure we can collaborate to grow as a team, I have maintained open lines of communication with the club leaders and the player leadership group throughout this period.
“I have no qualms about trying to improve our team and help us succeed on and off the pitch.
“I adore football; it has always been and will always be my top priority. Regarding my future with the Melbourne Football Club, I’m still determined to represent the red and blue.”
CEO of Melbourne Gary Pert stated that there was no uncertainty that Petracca would vouch for his commitment to the team.
“As we’ve stated all along, Christian is a much-loved member of the Melbourne Football Club and we value him immensely, not only as a player, but as a person and a leader,” Pert stated.
“We have been transparent over the last month regarding Christian’s ideas on how we as a football team can grow and develop.
“These discussions have improved our organisation, and we are appreciative that Christian and all of our leaders are prepared to have the difficult talks necessary to achieve success.
From this point on, we’re united and unwavering in our resolve to see the success that we know our AFL program can achieve.
“Most importantly, I know a lot of young Demons proudly wearing the number 5 on their back will be eagerly counting down the days until we see Christian back out on the footy pitch playing the game he loves.”
