David Fifita has sensationally announced he has signed with the Gold Coast Titans after the Sydney Roosters said it withdrew its offer to the star forward.
The State of Origin representative informed the Titans last week he would depart Robina at the end of the season, seeking new opportunities in Sydney.
He was expected to sign with the Sydney Roosters, but on Wednesday the Titans sensationally announced Fifita had committed to another two years.
“I’m extremely grateful for the time and interest shown in me over the past two weeks, but upon further reflection, I have made the decision that I want to remain a Titan beyond 2024,” Fifita said.
“I’m excited about the direction the team is taking and being close to home, and my family has been central to helping me make this decision.”
In a club statement, the Roosters said it had withdrawn their offer to Fifita after he allegedly expressed doubts about his decision to leave the Gold Coast.
“The Sydney Roosters have withdrawn their offer to David Fifita,” the club said.
“Despite his management making the initial approach to the club and Fifita personally informing the Sydney Roosters’ chairman and head coach of his intent to join the club last Thursday, Fifita has since expressed doubt about his decision.
“Consequently, the club has elected to withdraw its offer with view that it is in the Roosters’ best interests. The club wishes Fifita all the best.”
Signing Fifita had ruffled some feathers within the Bondi-based club, with Angus Crichton calling the decision to sign Fifita “interesting” and he may consider his future with another team.
Titans coach Des Hasler held a press conference last Thursday, confirming reports that Fifita had told the club he would seek new opportunities at the end of the year.
“It is disappointing, but it is all a part of the game and part of the theatre. It is part of the football merry-go-round that footballers come and go all the time,” Hasler said last week.
A press conference has been announced for 11am AEST following the announcement Fifita will stay at the Gold Coast until 2026.
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Posted 4h ago4 hours agoTue 14 May 2024 at 9:53pm, updated 2h ago2 hours agoTue 14 May 2024 at 11:09pm
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