In a bold declaration that has set the rugby league world buzzing, St George Illawarra Dragons head coach Shane Flanagan has vowed to lead his team to a premiership title if the club signs Canterbury Bulldogs star winger Josh Addo-Carr. The potential arrival of Addo-Carr, one of the game’s most dynamic and feared players, has Dragons fans dreaming of silverware, with Flanagan expressing absolute confidence that the winger could be the catalyst for a return to glory.
“If Addo-Carr is my player, I’m confident we can win the league,” Flanagan stated. “He’s a great player, and I respect him a lot. His talent, speed, and experience would be a huge asset for any team, and with him on board, I believe we can achieve something special at St George Illawarra.”
Flanagan didn’t stop at expressing his admiration for Addo-Carr’s talent—he also extended an open invitation for the winger to join the Dragons. In a clear reference to recent turmoil at Addo-Carr’s current club, the Bulldogs, Flanagan took the opportunity to offer what he believes is a better option for the star player.
“If Bulldogs don’t know how to treat a player well, then we do,” Flanagan stated. “Come to a club that’ll respect you. We’ve got a great fanbase, an amazing stadium, and excellent facilities. Addo-Carr would fit right in here, and if he joins, I’m confident we can win the league.”
The appeal to Addo-Carr has fired up speculation around a potential move, especially given the Dragons’ desire to return to premiership-winning form. Addo-Carr, widely regarded as one of the most electric players in the game, could be the missing piece in Flanagan’s plans to rebuild the club into serious contenders.
Nicknamed “The Foxx,” Addo-Carr has established himself as one of the NRL’s most exciting and dangerous players. At 28, the winger’s blistering speed and eye for the try line have earned him widespread recognition. Addo-Carr has been a key figure in both his club and national sides, helping Australia to World Cup triumphs and making over 130 NRL appearances with a staggering try-scoring record.
Flanagan’s belief in Addo-Carr’s ability to transform the Dragons is well-founded. “He brings more than just speed he brings a winning mentality and leadership on and off the field,” Flanagan said. “That’s the kind of player every coach dreams of having, and if he joins us, I have no doubt we’ll be competing for the premiership.”
Shane Flanagan is no stranger to success in the NRL. The experienced coach famously led the Cronulla Sharks to their first-ever premiership in 2016, overcoming the odds with a disciplined and determined team. His ability to instill a winning culture has made him one of the most respected coaches in the game, and under his guidance, the Dragons are aiming to replicate that success.
For Flanagan, having a player of Addo-Carr’s caliber could be the difference between being contenders and securing a long-awaited premiership. The Dragons’ roster already boasts exciting young talents and seasoned veterans, and with Addo-Carr, the squad would have a game-breaking weapon capable of turning matches in their favor.
Flanagan’s comments have sent waves through the rugby league community, with Dragons fans excited at the prospect of Addo-Carr joining their ranks. The combination of Flanagan’s tactical prowess and Addo-Carr’s electric pace could be exactly what the club needs to climb back to the top of the NRL ladder.
While there has been no official confirmation of a transfer, Flanagan’s public statements have heightened speculation. If the Dragons can pull off the signing of “The Foxx,” it could signal a new era of success for the club. Addo-Carr’s arrival would undoubtedly boost the team’s attack and bolster their chances of competing for a premiership in 2025.
With Flanagan confident in the squad’s ability and his plans for the future, the message is clear: if Josh Addo-Carr joins the Dragons, a premiership title is firmly within their grasp. Flanagan’s promise of a supportive club environment, coupled with his proven ability to lead teams to success, has Dragons fans eagerly anticipating what could be a game-changing signing.
