Gould Addresses Xerri Speculation: Confidence the Key for Bulldogs Centre
Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs General Manager Phil Gould has stepped in to clarify the swirling rumours surrounding centre Bronson Xerri, stating the player is currently “struggling for confidence” following a demanding 2023 season. Reports had emerged suggesting Xerri was seeking an immediate release from his contract, with some outlets even linking him to a potential swap deal with Penrith Panthers’ Izack Tago.
Gould, speaking on Nine’s Sunday afternoon NRL coverage, directly addressed the speculation, painting a picture of a player who has made significant personal sacrifices for the club. He acknowledged that Xerri played through a considerable number of injuries last year, consistently prioritising the team’s needs over his own well-being. This dedication, Gould explained, inevitably impacted his ability to train effectively and disrupted his off-season preparation.
“Bronson had a year last year where he did a great service for the club,” Gould stated. “He played with a lot of injuries all year. A year where he put the club and the team before himself on a lot of occasions, and it’s restricted his training and his off-season. And right at the moment, he’s just struggling for a bit of confidence.”
Despite these challenges, Gould emphasised that the club is fully committed to supporting Xerri. “We’re there to coach that and make sure it’s right,” he added. “He’s in good spirits, he trained this morning, and I’m looking forward to his game next weekend.”
The initial reports, which gained traction on social media and in various media publications, claimed Xerri had been informed of a potential demotion to the NSW Cup due to his form. This was juxtaposed with claims that he was actively seeking a release from his contract, which has two years remaining. Further reports suggested that the Bulldogs had indicated Xerri would not be offered an extension beyond 2027 and that he was unhappy with being shifted to right centre.
Following the surge of speculation, Gould found himself inundated with questions from Bulldogs fans on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter). He responded directly, aiming to quell the rumours and provide clarity.
“This is what I know… just spoke with Bronson and his manager,” Gould posted. “Neither Bronson Xerri nor his manager has asked for a release. Neither Bronson nor his manager has spoken to the media. Neither can explain where the media stories have started. Bronson and I will be having breakfast together tomorrow before training. Bronson will be training with the NRL squad tomorrow as per usual… not sure what else I can tell you.”
Denials Extend to Swap Deal Rumours
Adding another layer to the speculation, reports had surfaced suggesting that Penrith Panthers centre Izack Tago could be involved in a swap deal with the Bulldogs. Gould was quick to dismiss these rumours emphatically. When asked directly on X if there was any truth to the suggestion, his response was unequivocal: “Of course not… zero.”
Former Players Weigh In
The situation has also drawn commentary from former players. On 2GB’s Continuous Call Team, Neil Breen reiterated the reports of Xerri’s unhappiness regarding his positional shift and potential demotion, suggesting he had been told he was free to explore other options for 2027 and beyond.
Former Bulldog Darryl Brohman offered a more direct perspective, urging Xerri to “toughen up.”
“I mean seriously, we’ve all been dropped at some stage,” Brohman commented. “If he’s worried about playing on the right side, play better. If they’ve dropped him for the weekend coming up, so be it, get out there, grit your teeth and have a crack… the Bulldogs gave him a lifeline, I just find it remarkable.”
Agent Encourages Focus
George Christodoulou, acting as Xerri’s agent, also weighed in, confirming to The Sydney Morning Herald that no release request had been lodged. He encouraged his client to concentrate on his performance.
“It’s not the right option to be trying to find an exit,” Christodoulou advised. “As it is now, he’ll just be playing on and trying to find his way back into first grade.”
It’s worth noting that Xerri’s usual manager, Matthew Desira, is currently serving a suspension.
Xerri’s Bulldogs Journey So Far
Bronson Xerri made his highly anticipated return to the NRL with the Bulldogs in 2024, signing a two-year deal after serving a four-year suspension for a doping violation. He was part of the Bulldogs’ squad that played in the historic season-opening game in Las Vegas, featuring on the right side where he linked effectively with Lachlan Galvin and Jacob Preston. In November 2024, Xerri re-signed with the club, extending his commitment until the end of the 2027 season.
Pre-Gould Comments Highlighted Surprise
Prior to Phil Gould’s definitive statements, the news had already caused a stir. On Saturday’s edition of 2GB’s Continuous Call Team, Mark Geyer described the reports as “astonishing.” Geyer’s comments, made before Gould’s social media posts, suggested that there “has to be more to it,” and speculated that if Xerri were selected for an Origin game in the right centre position, he would perform exceptionally well. The ongoing narrative surrounding Xerri underscores the intense scrutiny faced by players and the critical role of confidence in navigating the pressures of professional rugby league.
