Gutherson’s future has recently come under intense scrutiny, raising questions about his role and longevity with the Parramatta Eels. There are concerns surrounding his ability to maintain the fullback position over the long term, especially given potential injury issues. This has led to speculation that the Eels might consider moving him on to make room for younger talent or new signings. However, incoming head coach Jason Ryles has categorically denied any such intentions.
In an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald, Ryles emphasized that there has never been a discussion regarding the release of Gutherson before the conclusion of his current contract. “At no stage did we discuss Gutho moving before the end of his contract,” Ryles stated, reinforcing his commitment to keeping the star player in the squad. He clarified that these matters have not been part of their discussions, indicating a clear stance from the coaching staff regarding Gutherson’s value to the team.
Despite this reassurance, it’s important to note that Gutherson’s future with the Eels beyond 2025 remains uncertain. His contract is set to expire at the end of that year, and there’s a legitimate possibility that he could sign elsewhere before the Eels present him with a new offer. This potential for change is further complicated by the Eels’ recent acquisition of Isaiah Iongi from the Penrith Panthers, who is slated to take on the fullback role starting in 2025. This move suggests a shift in the team’s structure, with Gutherson possibly relegated to a bench position.
Ryles has expressed a desire to evaluate how this positional change plays out before making any decisions about Gutherson’s future. He noted, “Then the next part is, ‘Let’s just see how things go and let’s just see what the future looks like.’ If this role works out for us, then I don’t see why he can’t be part of Parramatta for much longer.” This statement highlights the club’s commitment to assessing their roster dynamics and remaining open to possibilities regarding player roles.
However, time may not be on the Eels’ side. Journalist Michael Chammas has indicated that the St. George Illawarra Dragons are keenly interested in Gutherson and could make a push for him as soon as November 1, when player negotiations can officially begin for the 2026 season. Chammas mentioned that Dragons coach Shane Flanagan is closely monitoring the situation, suggesting that the Dragons see Gutherson as a valuable addition to their lineup.
Currently, the Dragons have bolstered their roster by signing notable players like Valentine Holmes and Damien Cook for 2025. However, the club is still on the lookout for more experienced players, particularly in the backline. While they have made strides in strengthening their roster, their immediate focus appears to be on reinforcing their forward pack. They have reportedly chased several prominent props, including Reagan Campbell-Gillard, Stefano Utoikamanu, Corey Horsburgh, and Addin Fonua-Blake, but have yet to secure any of these targets.
As the Eels navigate this transitional phase, they must consider how to best utilize Gutherson’s skills while also planning for the future. The club’s willingness to adapt and reassess player roles will be crucial in determining whether Gutherson remains a central figure in their plans moving forward.
The evolving dynamics of the NRL, coupled with the changing landscape of player contracts, make this an intriguing period for both Gutherson and the Eels. While Ryles has assured fans that there are no immediate plans to part ways with the captain, the realities of the league mean that changes could happen rapidly. With the potential interest from the Dragons looming, the next few months will be critical for both Gutherson and the Eels as they work to solidify their futures in the competitive landscape of rugby league.
