Josh Addo-Carr has firmly put to rest any rumors about talks with other NRL clubs, revealing that Parramatta Eels were the only team he ever considered after being sacked by Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs. In a direct response to speculation, Addo-Carr expressed his surprise at claims linking him to the Newcastle Knights and Cronulla Sharks, clarifying that his focus remained solely on the Eels from the very beginning.
“Parramatta Eels were the only team I considered, and they were the only team I spoke to,” Addo-Carr stated. “From the first meeting we had, I knew this was the right fit for me. I respected Parramatta so much that I didn’t speak to anyone else.”
This bold declaration comes as a surprise, particularly after Newcastle Knights CEO Phil Gardner publicly revealed that discussions had taken place between Addo-Carr’s camp and the Knights. While the nature and depth of those talks were not specified, Gardner’s admission had fueled speculation about the possibility of the explosive winger joining the Knights.
However, Addo-Carr’s recent comments completely contradict those reports, suggesting that despite the rumors, his commitment to joining the Eels was unwavering throughout the negotiation process.
Addo-Carr’s swift and clear statement aimed to silence the swirling rumors, particularly those linking him to the Knights and Sharks. The 28-year-old winger has long been known for his no-nonsense approach to the game, and his forthright denial of any other team discussions underscores his strong desire to remain with Parramatta.
“I was flattered by the interest from other clubs, but I knew where I wanted to be,” he explained. “Parramatta showed me a lot of respect, and once I met with them, I knew it was the place for me. I didn’t want to waste anyone’s time or lead anyone on.”
The rumors linking Addo-Carr to Cronulla were equally dismissed by the player. While it was widely speculated that the Sharks had shown interest, Addo-Carr reaffirmed that he had no contact with the club. “I’ve heard the talk, but it’s not true,” he asserted. “I didn’t have discussions with Cronulla, and they were never an option for me.”
For Addo-Carr, his decision to join Parramatta Eels was based not only on the club’s fit for his playing style but also on the respect and admiration he holds for the team. The winger, who was known for his speed and dynamic playmaking at the Bulldogs, is excited about the challenge of contributing to the Eels’ success and continuing his career at a club with high aspirations.
“I’ve been watching the Eels for a while now, and I’m impressed with their culture and the talent in the squad,” Addo-Carr said. “I’m excited to add my energy to this group and help them achieve great things. This is a new chapter for me, and I couldn’t be happier to be here.”
Addo-Carr’s decision has been hailed as a major win for the Eels, as the talented winger will add pace, flair, and try-scoring ability to an already formidable roster. His arrival is expected to further bolster the Eels’ depth, especially as they push for greater success in the NRL.
As Addo-Carr settles into his new environment at Parramatta, his focus now shifts to making an immediate impact on the field. He is eager to prove that his decision to commit to the Eels was the right one and to show that his best years are ahead of him.
With his sights set firmly on a fresh start at Parramatta, Josh Addo-Carr’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of choosing the right fit in one’s career. His openness in addressing rumors has only further solidified his bond with the Eels, and as the new season approaches, fans will be eager to see the electrifying winger in action as he aims to lead his team to success.
For now, with all speculation behind him, Addo-Carr is ready to focus on what matters most: playing his best football for the Eels and making the most of this exciting new chapter in his NRL journey.
