In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves throughout the NRL community, the Penrith Panthers have terminated the contract of head coach Ivan Cleary, with the announcement delivered only minutes ago at Panthers HQ.
The club released a brief but urgent statement confirming the decision
> โEffective immediately, the Penrith Panthers have parted ways with head coach Ivan Cleary. Further details will be provided at an upcoming press conference.โ
While the Panthers have not officially disclosed the reason for Clearyโs sudden dismissal, early reports suggest tensions had been rising behind the scenes over the past several weeks. Sources close to the club claim that disagreements regarding team direction, roster management, and internal performance standards played a major role in the move.
Cleary, who led the Panthers to multiple premierships during one of the most dominant eras in NRL history, was widely regarded as one of the most secure coaches in the league. His abrupt exit has left players, fans, and analysts stunned.
Players React in Real Time
Several Panthers stars reportedly learned of the news through social media before being contacted by club officials. One senior player, speaking anonymously, described the mood as โsurrealโ and โchaotic.โ
What Happens Next?
The club is expected to appoint an interim coach within the next 24 hours, with assistants Cameron Ciraldo and Ben Gardiner both considered potential short-term replacements. A full search for a long-term head coach is expected to begin immediately.
The Panthers have scheduled a press conference later today, where CEO Brian Fletcher is expected to address the decision and outline the clubโs next steps.
As the story develops, fans are left with more questions than answers โ and the NRL landscape has been dramatically shaken in the span
of a single morning.
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